“After this, many of his disciples went away and accompanied him no more.”
John 6:60-69
They left in droves then, as so many do now, walking away from food for the soul, seeking instead that which will satisfy their logical way of thinking. This self-giving act of love, this divine mystery, to them is incomprehensible, unacceptable, intolerable.
Yet sometimes, for those of us who stay, though we are physically present, our mindset, attitude, lifestyle suggest movement away. We eat, we drink routinely maybe, but the Eucharist does not become the source and summit of our very existence. We somehow distance ourselves when we perceive it as symbol or sign and do not believe in the Real Presence; or experience its vital sustenance.
O that we could taste and see that the Lord is good and savour His richness! O that we would accept the grace given freely and draw spiritual strength for the journey! In our receiving we have our fill, all that we need.
Lord, help us in return to recognize your presence in us when you give yourself as food for the soul. Amen.