MEMORIAL OF SAINT BONIFACE, BISHOP AND MARTYR THURSDAY OF THE SEVENTH WEEK OF EASTER, JUNE 5, 2025

MASS READINGS:

Gospel

John 17:20-26

Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed saying: I pray not only for these, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me. And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me. Father, they are your gift to me. I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world. Righteous Father, the world also does not know you, but I know you, and they know that you sent me. I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them."

REFLECTION

"the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them."

 

Perhaps the physical appearance of the bread impedes my ability to see the glorious presence of God in Communion. One needs to look through the eyes of Jesus.

At times, I am stifled by my morning routine. I fail to see Him, much less converse with Him. Friendships should be a joyful spontaneity, yet I see myself going through a stack of prayers, guilty if not all said.

The beautiful smiling hibiscus opening up its flower of the day shows me how amazing God is.

I see the potted poinsettia that is struggling to grow under my care, the poison sumac rash from my lack of gardening skills, the recipe that does not quite look like the picture. These failings of my life are reflections of me, my best efforts.

Jesus Christ is the very essence of life. Without Him, I could not survive.

He gave us Himself …the little piece of bread is the Bread of Life and He is calling us to become like Him, with Him. To imitate Him is to allow Him in your heart and let Him take over. It means to be in union with Him. No more my own best efforts, but living in His body, blood, soul and divinity 24/7.

If possible, receive Jesus daily in Communion and spend an hour in His holy presence. Dear Lord, in your kindness make me love you more and more.

God bless you