The Blessing of Bread

In the Gospel readings this weekend from John 6 we hear Jesus claim that He is the bread of life. What an amazing statement! Bread is the staple of life in most cultures. Certainly there are different ways of baking, making and storing bread but it is one of the common blessings of life. 

The next time you enjoy a slice of bread consider Jesus words. The bread of earth is needed but all who eat it will eventually die. The person who feasts on the "Bread of Life", Jesus Christ, will live FOREVER. Are you "filled up" with this bread that is true food? Is your soul nourished in Word and in Sacrament? Jesus words in John 6 are very clear and in need of little interpretation. He expects us to feast on Him. He established the perpetual method for doing that in the Mass. Be there every Sunday or be square.

Here's a neat blessing that Fr Cimpl uses in his homily this coming weekend:

Irish Bread Blessing

Be gentle when you touch bread.

Let it not lie uncared for, unwanted.

So often bread is taken for granted.

There is such beauty in bread,

beauty in turf and soil, beauty of patient toil.

Wind and rain have caressed it,

Christ often blessed it.

Be gentle when you touch bread.