Rereading the Old Testament patriarchs in the lens of Christ helps us not only to see the marvelous way God prefigured his redemption in the lives of the holy ones of ancient times, but also to see the work of redemption in our lives. In today's readings for Mass, we hear about a favored son who was sold to the powers of the world for 30 pieces of silver, and how through this act of betrayal mankind was saved from famine. The Lord Jesus saved the world from a spiritual famine by feeding us withthe supersubstantial bread of his own flesh, after being sold by his friends to this world's powers.Going into shops, schools, workplaces and even
our own homes, we can find a kind of famine for divine love. It seems at every encounter in the different sectors of the world, that many are
absolutely starving for the kind of infinite and unconditional love that only God can give them. Encountering this vast storehouse of the divine grain of charity in the Eucharist as the only place that can feed a starving world makes us deeply identify with Joseph of Egypt, who was charged with feeding the world. It can seem a bit overwhelming at times, and the sheer hunger of the crowds can seem staggering, yet we must continue to invite people to make pilgrimage to the Eucharistic banquent that they may discover the love they may not even know they are starving for.
If only people were better prepared for their Communions. . . !
ReplyDelete'No fervent soul has ever relaxed who did not first leave off receiving the Holy Eucharist. If I found that when going frequently to Communion I became no better, was still just as weak, just as prone to evil, just as indifferent about sin, I should conclude not that I ought to leave off going, but that I ought to receive our Lord with better dispositions. I should see if my confessions were wanting in sincerity, contrition, or purpose of amendment.'
St. Claude de la Colombiere
'Father, I am hungry; for the love of God give this soul her food, her Lord in the Eucharist. . .'
St. Catherine of Siena
Inspirational Quotes from the Saints
I too am convinced that the greatest means of sanctity is receiving holy communion well, and also that one of the greatest obstacles is not approaching this infinite source and summit of grace without better dispositions.
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