19 April 2024 - Only By Grace Reflections

#OnlyByGraceReflections #CFC #CouplesforChrist

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TOPIC: HAVE YOU DEVELOPED A HUGE APPETITE FOR THE EUCHARIST?

First Reading: Acts 9: 1-20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 117: 1, 2
Alleluia: John 6: 56
Gospel: John 6: 52-59

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus’ graphic imagery about eating His flesh and drinking His blood is indeed puzzling at first, especially to the Jews with whom He had a discourse. In the previous chapter of John where Jesus fed the 5,000, we learn that the next day, the same multitudes continued to follow Him, seeking another meal. Jesus pointed out their short-sightedness: they were only seeking physical bread. There is something more important: “Food that endures to eternal life”. At this point, Jesus attempts to turn their perspective away from physical sustenance to their true need, which was spiritual.

This contrast between physical food and spiritual food sets the stage for Jesus’ statement that we must eat His flesh and drink His blood. Jesus explains that it is not physical bread that the world needs, but spiritual bread.

This is the 1453rd installment of our CFC contemplation series focusing on the daily liturgical readings.

[NOTE: As we continue to pray for Bro Bong Arjonillo’s healing and recovery, let us listen to our brother Jess Ferrer, Head of the CFC Migrants Program, as he brings us today's reflection.

All the regular reflections are between 3-7 minutes long, enough time for us to ponder what God's message is for us individually and to pray that we may live them out in our lives. This video is also available on Couples for Christ’s Facebook page. In You Tube, just type ONLY BY GRACE REFLECTIONS]