Life and hope and satisfaction - March 1

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 61, 62; PM Psalm 68:1-20(21-23)24-36
Gen. 21:1-21; Heb. 11:13-22; John 6:41-51

“So Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day;”        (John 6:53-54)

In high school chemistry, we learned about ions – when atoms had negatively charged electrons that were not equally matched with the positively charged protons. Some elements are more prone to let go of their electrons. Others are more comfortable holding on to extra electrons. And in doing so, these particles are drawn to others who help neutralize them, so that they move to a lower energy level.

This reminds me of how we humans operate emotionally and relationally. Sometimes we are prone to get immersed in lots of grumbling and complaining – like the people around Jesus who were uncertain about his teachings. We find ourselves in tangles of drama, getting tripped up and stuck. Maybe there is a person who can come in and listen to our concerns and serve as the balm that brings us to a closer sense of peace and understanding – not resolving the chaos of the world but bringing us to a lower energy level for the present moment, so that we can move forward.

I am reminded of a woman named Lynn. She felt concern and consternation for much in the world, and she readily shared her worries with those who would listen. She had a highly critical eye and upon entering her home, Lynn was quick to comment on the status of my hairstyle - more often than not, it was a negative critique. We would talk of theology and the church. It felt like Lynn was testing me, evaluating if I was an acceptable priest to be in her presence. Then, we would pray and share Eucharist. Something visible would shift about Lynn. She was more relaxed. At peace. Pleased. Lynn felt about the Body and Blood of Christ what Jesus promises in this reading from John 6 today – it gave her life and hope and satisfaction.

This morning, how do you find yourself? At a higher, unstable energy level like a volatile ion? I don’t know about you, but I need the nourishment of prayer. I need the enrichment that comes from Christ-filled community. I need the words of Jesus, for they soothe me, ground me, encourage me. What do you need to help you feel nourished and secure today?

- Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

Who is a calming, loving person in your life? Who speaks truths that you are willing to hear and receive?

What does participating in the Eucharist do within you?

Daily Challenge

Journal today about your energy and anxiety levels. What is unsettling to you? What can you take to Jesus in prayer? Where do you feel the Holy Spirit stirring you to life more fully into the life that God has promised in Christ?