My dear brothers and sisters,
Our discourse of The Eucharist from the Gospel of John continues for two more weeks.
Often when I am, at the bedside of those dying, I do not have much to say but rely on the wisdom of the Church. I say some prayers with them such as Nunc Dimittis – ‘Lord now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace according to thy word. For mine eyes have seen thy salvation which thou hast prepared before the face of all people. A light to enlighten the gentiles and to be the glory of thy people Israel.’
Today, we turn our gaze to Elijah, the prophet in despair, a man worn down by the weight of his mission. In his darkest hour, he cried out to God, yearning for death as an escape from his burdens. His story mirrors the human experience: moments when the weight of life becomes overwhelming, and the desire to cease becomes a powerful temptation.
Yet, in the depths of Elijah’s despair, God provided sustenance – bread and water. A simple act of physical care that sustained his life. This echoes the profound truth of the Eucharist: a spiritual nourishment that sustains our souls.
We, too, encounter moments of weariness. Our minds may be sharp, but our spirits can grow weary. The world, with its relentless pace, can leave us feeling depleted. Making us look forward to rest or release .. How do you envision your rest? The Eucharist becomes an oasis, offering respite and renewal. God gives us eternal life and renewal even as he renews Elijah.
Jesus, the Bread of Life, invites us with these words: I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world. In this sacred meal, we are united with Christ and with one another. A foretaste of the heavenly banquet, a promise of eternal life.
Let us reaffirm our faith in eternal life and approach the altar with hearts filled with gratitude. Today it is right to acknowledge our longing, whatever it may be. May the Eucharist be our source of strength, hope, and eternal life.
PS: Keep in Prayers my Grandmother Theresa Danboro Dada (96) who entered eternity this morning August 11.