In the Gospel reading today, we finish up in John 6. After Jesus talked about eating His Flesh and drinking His Blood, many of the people were upset. They figured he was some nut job talking about cannibalism. So what happened? “As a result of this, many of his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer walked with him.” Did Jesus call them back? Did He try to clear up some terrible misunderstanding? Nope. He turned to the Twelve and asked them, “Do you also want to leave?” And Peter answers, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
This notion of eating Jesus’ Flesh and drinking His Blood was repulsive to many. But the Twelve figured that Jesus must have a plan, a purpose, a way to fulfill His teaching. And, of course, He did. Still does. It is the Eucharist. The Bread of Life. His Body and Blood. So that all who eat and drink, for all time, might have eternal life.
Many today talk of leaving the Church, for various reasons. While these reasons may seem valid in a moment of emotion, leaving the Church cannot be justified. No one should EVER walk away from the Eucharist. If you've been struggling, I implore you to repeat the words of St. Peter from John 6. Without the Church, there is no Eucharist. Please don't let men keep you from Jesus' Body and Blood.
Father, thank you for the gift of the Eucharist. Deepen our faith and understanding, that we may share this greatest gift of all with others. Amen.
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“Please don’t let men keep you from Jesus’ Body and Blood.” That says it all Gus!
Some turn away because they are looking for a reason to; some because they don’t know any better; and some because they are being led astray by men who do not teach His Word.
Prayers for your continued healing and for the healing of our Church as well.
It is good to have you back, God bless.