Jesus nourishes us. In a world that is fraught with meaninglessness, he offers purpose; to a world that is stumbling in darkness and confusion, he provides direction. He satisfies the hungry heart; he enlivens the drooping spirit. Those who follow Jesus will never be left to languish in the desert. If we but open our eyes, we will be amazed at the bountifulness of the nourishment that is provided for us. We will discover that God is magnanimous, even prodigal in giving, that God’s generosity exceeds all of our expectations and also our understanding.
Furthermore, we are nourished by God through the ministry of each other, through the simple things of life, (distributing bread and gathering up the fragments): visiting the sick and consoling the grieving; caring for a child and giving aid to an elder; bagging groceries and directing a choir. If we but open our eyes, we will be astounded at how ordinary actions can satisfy our hunger and the hunger of others. Most amazing of all is that this nourishment is given freely; there was no thought of requiring payment. God simply invites: Come! All we have to do is reach out our hands to receive and we will never be sent away to find nourishment for ourselves. We will discover that a bond is established that endures. Jesus is filled with compassion, a compassion that is not a fleeting emotion, but an enduring attitude. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ.
© Dianne Bergant CSA, https://www.liturgyhelp.com/calendar/date/2026Aug02/0/RefDiBer