(Optional)
Memorial of Saint Joseph the Worker
(Acts 9:1-20; John 6:52-59)
Today much of the Church celebrates St. Joseph the
Worker. The feast reminds Christians of
the dignity of human work. Just as
Joseph plied his trade to provide for his family so do billions of workers
today. The gospel suggests that Jesus too put food on
the tables of his followers.
The gospel is unequivocal. Jesus provides true food with his body and
true drink with his blood. These
elements can hardly be considered ordinary food and drink. They represent Jesus’ total sacrifice of
self. The also nourish one not just to live
today but to thrive eternally. The
difference here is monumental. It is
like that of an entertainer saying, “I love you all” and a spouse saying to his
bride on their wedding day, “I will love you until the day I die.”
We will see if the pandemic’s closure of churches results
in a greater longing for the Eucharist. Many
people have commented how much they miss receiving Communion. Hopefully, this longing will translate in
regular reception of Communion when public masses resume. May it all bring about a closer imitation of
Jesus’ sacrifice of self for others.
