Monday of the Third Week of Easter April 26, 2004 Scripture: Acts 6:8-15; John 6:22 29 Reflection: After feeding the multitude, Jesus leaves quietly to commune with his Father. He returns to continue teaching and healing – going first to his disciples in the boat, then to the crowd who crossed the lake looking for him. When Jesus approaches the disciples, seeing him transformed, they become fearful. Jesus compassionately assures them, “Do not be afraid.” The crowd arrives and questions him about when he came. Jesus does not feed their curiosity but instead addresses their search for “perishable food.” Jesus calls them and us to the deeper reality of our “interior hunger” when he says, “Seek the food that will last unto eternal life … food that I will give you.” Another question tells us the crowd now wants to know how to perform God’s work. Jesus guides all to the heart of what must be learned. God’s work is accomplished when we “have faith in the One whom God has sent” – when we are freed to experience the Father’s love. Suggested Action: Consider this gospel scene; experience the movement of the Spirit in Jesus, the disciples, the crowd and yourself; embrace Jesus’ word to you today. As you freely receive this gift, give it as a gift! Sr. Joanne Madden, IHM Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania