Friday of the Second Week of Easter April 8, 2005 Scripture: Acts 5:34-42; John 6: 1-15 Reflection: These days after the Resurrection of Jesus reinforce our need to study and meditate on the life of Jesus before His Passion and Death. The narrative of the loaves and fishes has been told by the four Evangelists. For the most part there is very little difference in the facts. The disciples were asking Jesus to send the crowds to the villages and farms. Jesus asked, “Where shall we buy bread so that the people may eat?” He did this to test Philip, for he himself knew what he was to do. Philip answered him. “Two hundred silver coins would not buy enough bread for each of them to have a piece.” “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what good are these for so many?” Jesus said, “Tell the people to sit down.” Jesus took the loaves and fish, gave thanks and distributed them to those who were seated, then told his disciples to gather what was left which filled twelve baskets. It is difficult to picture the logistics of distribution of food to satisfy everyone. Jesus used meals as a way to encounter and embrace, to teach and reconcile, to heal and unite. He had compassion on the multitude. He reached out to the believers and non-believers, those who were there out of curiosity, the protesters, the marginalized. Jesus did not exclude or alienate anyone. He provided food for the body and reconciliation to those whose hearts were opened to His Presence and Peace. Suggested Action: Use your time today to reach out to those who may be hurting or in need of reconciliation. Let us be gentle to each other. Be a listener! Sr. Mary C. Ryan, IHM Tampa, Florida