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June 26, 2011

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Opening Prayer

First Reading: Deuteronomy 8:2-3,14b-16a

Psalm: 147:12-15,19-20

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:16-17

Gospel Reading: John 6:51-58

On the heels of his miracle of the feeding of the 5000 (John 6:1-15), Jesus delivers his “bread of life” discourse in the synagogue at the seaside village of Capernaum (verse 59). The time is Passover (verse 4), one year before his Passion, death, and Resurrection.

In the first part of the discourse (verses 35-47), Jesus invites his listeners to have faith in him. Their main objections at this point are his claim to have come down from heaven (verses 33, 41-42) and his claim to be able to raise them on the last day (verse 35)—something he could only do if he were God.

The second part of his address (verses 48-58) consists of an invitation to the Eucharist, the partaking of his body and blood. His hearers are revolted by the idea, understanding him—correctly—as speaking literally (this is evident by their reactions in verses 52, 60, 66). Later, some of these hearers—including many of his disciples (verses 60, 66), including Judas (verses 64-65, 70-71)—“no longer accompanied him” because of this teaching. Only those who trusted in him completely, though as bewildered as the others, stayed with him (verses 67-69).

QUESTIONS:

In the 1^st Reading, what was the reason God gave the manna to the Israelites as they wandered through the wilderness for 40 years? What does he say their response should be?

In the 2^nd reading, St. Paul is warning the Corinthians not to mix the Eucharist and pagan sacrifices (verses 1-15). What does this say about the Eucharist? About those that receive it?

In the Gospel Reading, who is Jesus speaking to? What great miracle has he just performed? Where does this discourse take place (verse 59)? What does he say about the city in which he is speaking (Matthew 11:22ff) and how they received his message?

What are the blessings of following Jesus’ commands to eat his flesh and drink his blood (verses 51, 54, 56-58)? What is the consequence for those who don’t (verse 53)? According to Jesus’ promise in this passage, when does eternal life begin if you eat his flesh?

What happens if the Flesh and Blood of Christ is received unworthily (1 Corinthians 11:27-30; CCC 1385)? What should be our attitude when we partake of the Eucharist?

How often do you go to Communion? What is your experience of God’s life when you do? If you are unable to receive Communion at this time, how important is it for you work towards that goal? What will be lacking in your spiritual life if you don’t?

Catechism of the Catholic Church: §§ 787, 2837, 1322-1419

God in his omnipotence could not give more, in His wisdom He knew not how to give more, in His riches He had not more to give, than the Eucharist.

–St. Augustine