Daily Gospel Reflection for May 9, 2025

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Laurann Donahue

Today's Gospel: John 6:52-59

I am a convert to the Catholic faith. When I give my testimony, I tell people that my Protestant faith gave me a love for the Scriptures, but the Catholic faith gave me Jesus truly present in the Eucharist.

John chapter 6 is one of my most favorite passages in the entire Bible. I’ve probably said that before, but I have to say it every time I have the privilege to comment on this chapter. But honestly, I don’t even remember this passage from my Protestant days. I think it must not have been preached in my church nor studied in the Protestant college I attended.

I read John chapter 6 now, and it has a profound effect on me every time. How could you not understand Him to mean that He is giving us His very life? He loves us so much that He even becomes a part of us. Just like bread nourishes our bodies, His body in the Holy Eucharist nourishes our souls.

When we talk to our children about the Mass and what we do there, do we explain just how special the Eucharist is? Do we model the special relationship God wants to have with us?

You don’t have to study Catholic theology and you don’t have to teach catechesis. You just need to model for your child how special the Eucharist is by revering Him and revealing Him to them. Take the time to dress appropriately for Mass, genuflect before the tabernacle. Use those “prayer hands.” Don’t sound like a drone when saying the prayers aloud at Mass; say them as if you really mean them. Be quiet in the church after Mass; talk only in the narthex. Take your children to Eucharistic Adoration. Show them that you can’t wait to be there again.

Ponder:

With how much reverence do I approach the Holy Eucharist?

Pray:

Dear Lord, let me hear Your words, "This is the bread that came down from heaven," every time I approach the Eucharist. I want to live with You forever with my children.

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