August 25, 2024, John 6:60-69
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/082524.cfm
A Sad Day For Jesus
Sadness is a genuine emotion. It is normal to want to ignore or bury such feelings. We think if we forget the terrible things that happen to us, we will be ok. But such methods never work.
Losing a person we love in death or losing a friend because of some misunderstanding is heartbreaking. Jesus experienced this with the people following Him after eating the loaves and fishes. Eating His Flesh and drinking His Blood is a hard saying. “Who can accept it?” they asked. And they started walking away, returning to their former way of life.
I envisioned this scene and could vividly feel the emptiness in Jesus’ heart, which He experienced with each disciple who walked away that day. Peter did the same thing after Jesus’ resurrection: “I’m going fishing.”
Beyond being sentimental, I ask you to join me in visiting Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and embracing the pain and emptiness you feel when someone you know chooses not to eat and drink at the Lord’s Table.
First, God the Father will honor your visit, and compassion for Jesus will fill His heart with your love. Then, He will draw that person back to His Son’s Table of Communion. “For this reason, I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by my Father.” He will do this work of mercy through your love for Jesus in that person.
Nothing we say or do can change a person’s heart to love the Real Presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. That is the work of our Father God. The same love and compassion we have for Jesus, He will have for a disciple who no longer walks with us.
Gospel Challenge!
Come to Jesus in the Tabernacle and ask the Holy Spirit to Ignite the Fire of His love in your heart to welcome someone home.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
