Thursday Of The Third Week Of Eastertide

Acts 8:26-40
Ps.65(66):8-9,16-17,20
John 6:44-51

THE SACRAMENTS DRAW US CLOSER TO A DEEPER LOVE OF GOD AND HIS PEOPLE

Philip stands out as a dynamic figure in the early Christian community, chosen as one of the first seven deacons alongside the remarkable Stephen (Acts 6: 5). After witnessing the martyrdom of St. Stephen, Philip boldly brought the gospel to Samaria, where his ministry flourished with incredible success! But the adventure didn’t stop there; he was then guided by the Spirit on an exhilarating journey down the Jerusalem-Gaza Road, where he had the extraordinary opportunity to introduce the Ethiopian Eunuch to Christ, baptizing him with passion and purpose (Acts 8: 26-38). From there, the Spirit led him to Azotus and beyond, spreading the message of hope and salvation to countless towns!

Philip embodies the essence of a true missionary, endlessly following the promptings of the Holy Spirit. He is always ready to go wherever the Spirit leads—whether explaining Scriptures or guiding someone to Jesus. Mission, as we know, both reaches outwards and touches the heart within our very beings. This calls for the direction of the Holy Spirit to fuel our evangelistic fire, leading us to preach, teach, and illuminate the path to Christ. So, let’s ask ourselves: do we view our journey with Christ as the ultimate choice in our lives or merely one of many options? The Spirit blows where it wills—are you prepared to let it guide your heart, mind, and every corner of your life?

The gospel continues with the captivating Bread of Life Discourse, where Jesus proclaims, “I am the living bread that has come down from heaven!” He offers not just temporary sustenance but the eternal food that nourishes our very souls! The Lord has kept His promise to be with us until the end of time, and that’s something truly exhilarating!

The Eucharist represents His living and true presence—the Blessed Sacrament—and in that sacred presence, each of us finds an endless wellspring of strength, peace, hope, joy, and salvation. He remains with us in the tabernacles for our sake, inviting us to engage in a beautiful mindfulness of His presence both inside and outside of Holy Mass. His love is never absent; it’s a lifeline to salvation!

Let’s celebrate this amazing gift and never take it for granted! The mystery of His divinity makes Him both transcendent and vulnerable for our sake, imprisoned in the Tabernacle, waiting just for us. When we receive Him in Holy Communion, He makes no distinction between saints and sinners, welcoming every one of us with open arms to approach Him with grace and sincerity.

In the sacrament of mercy and reconciliation, Jesus embodies love and forgiveness, making it possible for us to amend our ways and embrace eternal life! We cannot overlook the profound power of the Risen Lord; He has made Himself accessible and approachable. We should never hesitate to seek out the sacrament of mercy and love!

Our Lady, the Immaculate Conception, serves as the perfect model for receiving Holy Communion. She believed, conceived, and nurtured Him, following His journey and knowing He would conquer death. After Christ’s glorious ascension, she shared in the joy at the table with the other disciples, firmly believing He had risen. She understands that Jesus is indeed the bread of life. Let’s embrace her with humility and gratitude, trusting that she will guide us on our path to her Son. Let this journey fill your heart with excitement and inspiration!

Peace be with you!

Fr Joseph Osho