Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint Addai (2nd century)

Legend has it that Saint Addai was ordered by Saint Thomas to go to the court of King Abgar the Black. Tradition tells us that Abgar, the king of Edessa, was stricken with an incurable sickness. Hearing of Jesus' power and healing miracles, King Abgar wrote to Jesus, imploring him to come and heal him. Jesus sent his messenger Addai, gifted with his power, to heal the king. Addai came to Edessa to cure the king. After King Abgar was no longer afflicted with his ailment, Addai converted him and his people to the faith.

Reflection

In Jesus' time, many miracles were performed that subsequently led to large conversions. But even Jesus is quick to remind his listeners that miracles will not actually create true and lasting faith. True faith often exists in the absence of dazzling miracles. Through the prism of faith, we see that literally all of creation is, in a true sense, a miracle--direct evidence of the hand and influence of God.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, help me to recognize that all my life is miraculous and to appreciate you in every detail of every moment of all of my days.

Meditations

Meditation for Gospel

Jesus tells us that he is the living bread. The symbolism of bread is rich. Bread's nutrients give us the energy we need to go about our lives. Jesus tells us that when we eat the bread of the Eucharist, we are absorbing all his values, his grace, and his energy to use in furthering the Kingdom of God. Jesus also tells us that his life will satisfy us. Our longing for meaning and purpose in life will be achieved in consuming Jesus, the bread of life. Christ, Bread of Life, be with us, inspire us, nourish us, help us find meaning and purpose in life. Be with us so that we may never be hungry or thirsty again. (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)