[Salvation]

Wednesday, December 6

First Wednesday of Advent

Bread Enough for All

Today’s Gospel reading is a story we have heard many times – the miracle of the loaves and the fishes. But why are we reading it now, in Advent? Is not the bread which Jesus multiplies the sign of his own body, broken and shared by us in the Eucharist? Is this not a Lenten reading? Perhaps we have forgotten that before Jesus feeds the people, they have been waiting. “My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, for they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat.” Perhaps the answer lies in this waiting, in the yearning that grew in the people as their bellies were empty but their hearts were filled by Jesus’ words. And then, at the end of the three days (like the three days in the tomb!), they witness a miracle – but one so humble! There are no pyrotechnics here, just bread, enough for all. In Advent we are waitng, yearning for just such a miracle – the Bread of Heaven that comes to earth as a newborn babe. And like the people that crowded onto the hillside, one against the other, we must strain to hear Christ’s words that prepare us humbly to receive the gift.

Reflection based on Matthew15:29-37
Lisa Lickona

Loving Father, may my spiritual hunger lead me to your Son and to my daily Bread.

[Salvation]

Week 1: Friday And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed (Him), crying out, "Son of David, have pity on us!" When He entered the house, the blind men approached Him and Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I can do this?" "Yes, Lord," they said to Him. Then He touched their eyes and said, "Let it be done for you according to your faith." And their eyes were opened. (Matthew 9:27-30) Reflection Many people scoff at the idea of miracles. Unwilling to believe that Jesus could restore the sight of the blind when He walked on earth, they are unwilling to see the miracles that Jesus continues to work today. If we are open to the guiding touch of God’s hand and willing to discover His plan for our lives, miracles will happen. What prevents us from seeing and being a part of God’s miracles? Would we rather be blind? Advent Action Send a get-well card to someone in the hospital. Prayer Lord, clarify my vision that I may see You in others and sense You within my own soul.