"They ate and were satisfied." Mark 8:8a
My childhood could never be satisfied with what I had; "if only °" was a frequent thought, and then not quenched when I gained the desired item. What I was seeking was materialistic or selfish.
Today's readings provide a contrast for right seeking. In the First Reading, our early ancestors are blessed by God with everything in Eden, but want more and selfishly seek the more against God's commands. "By the sweat of your face shall you get bread to eat" (Gn 3:19a) is the result of their selfish desire. No longer will they receive freely.
In the Gospel, the people are feeding on Jesus words and witnessing miracles. "My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat." (Mk 8:2) Seeing their need, the Lord blesses seven loaves and a few fish and feeds four thousand. "They ate and were satisfied" (Mk 8:8a), and with enough fragments to fill seven baskets full. Overflowing abundance from selflessly seeking Jesus.
We are still in the throes of a great pandemic - let us be selfless and seek Jesus guidance for how we can help the other.
What do we seek?
Let us echo today's Psalm response, "In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge." (Ps 90:2).
Reflection by:
Alan Gauzens
Did You Know...
Alan Gauzens is a parishioner at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Dunedin. There, he is a lector and active in men's ministries including the Knights of Columbus, That Man Is You! and Tap Into Discipleship. A 2019 graduate of the Lay Pastoral Ministry Institute, Alan and his wife Joanne have been married for 40 years and are blessed with 4 children.
