PRAYER MOMENT
Thursday,
8 May 2014
THE LIFE OF THE WORLD
Pause. Be present
in the synagogue at Capernaum.
Reading: “Anyone
who eats this bread will live for ever; and the bread that I shall give is my
flesh, for the life of the world.” (John 6:44-51)
Reflection. We
continue to explore the riches of John, chapter six. The “life of the world!”
The world already had “life” before the coming of Jesus and many today consider
the world has a life of its own: we don’t need Jesus. But what God is offering
in Jesus is a vast expansion of what we call “life.” People are alive, yes. But
often their lives are wearisome. As I write I am in Nigeria where I see huge
numbers of people squeezing a life out of what remains when the powerful have
taken their share. I find a quiet patience and dignity as people struggle to
make a living. They are nourished on the bread of life and it is clear to see.
But the intention of Jesus is not only that they enjoy the fullness of life in the
Spirit. That “life” is to flow over into this world through justice and the
fair distribution of the gifts of the earth.
Prayer. Lord, you
are the life of the world! Help us to welcome that life and share it with our
brothers and sisters. Amen..
David Harold-Barry SJ
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