THE LIFE OF THE WORLD

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