Daily Gospel Reflection for August 25, 2024

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

Today's Gospel: John 6:60-69

For the last few Sundays, we have heard some of Jesus’ most difficult teachings. He explains that He is the bread of life, and that the bread He will give is His flesh. (cf. John 6:51). Today we hear that while some of His followers grumble, Jesus doesn’t back down from His assertion that eating His flesh and drinking His blood is the only way to eternal life.

Because of this intense teaching, many of His followers turned away and returned to their old way of life. Jesus, unfazed by their decision, turns to His closest friends, His Apostles, and asks if they’ll leave too. Simon Peter answers with profound words:

“Master, to whom should we go?” John 6:68

Simon Peter doesn’t pretend to understand this intense teaching. He doesn’t assert that the path forward to eat His master’s flesh is clear. He merely acknowledges that Jesus is the Christ, and so there is nowhere else for them to go.

As a mother, the words of Simon Peter echo in my heart. I can’t always see a clear path to attaining holiness for myself and my family. I don’t understand why I’m challenged in the ways I am. The great mysteries of the faith remain a mystery to my simple, human brain.

This is faith. Believing and trusting when the way forward is confusing and seemingly impossible. I know that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. It may not always be clear or simple, but I will follow Jesus, for I have nowhere else to go.

Ponder:

When the teachings and path of Christ challenge my understanding, how can I live like Simon Peter and not like the followers who abandoned Jesus?

Pray:

Lord, give me the faith of Simon Peter to remain steadfast, even in times of uncertainty.

Copyright 2024 Maria Riley