The Gospel for Lent IV from St. John 6:1-14 is one of the four accounts of the miraculous Feeding of Five Thousand found in the gospels. These accounts have several themes. First, there is the general truth that Christ has power over natural elements. Secondly, the miracle manifests Christ's concern for human need, especially need among those who hear Him and hunger for righteousness. Thirdly, especially in St. John's presentation, there are Messianic references. Jesus goes to a mountain like Moses, He provides food in the wilderness as Moses did, and at the end, the people acknowledge Him as "that prophet that should come into the world" (John 6:14). Fourthly, there are also associations with the Lord's Supper any time Christ breaks bread with His followers, and these associations become even more explicit later in John 6.
All of these themes can be related to our Lenten preparations, but this time, let us highlight the theme of spiritual nourishment. One great purpose of Lent is for us to seek renewed nourishment for our souls. During this season, we journey with Christ toward the cross, the tomb, and resurrection. And such a journey demands spiritual sustenance. Ordinarily, Christians feed their souls in three main ways: through reading/hearing the words of Scripture, through a regular prayer life (morning, evening, and other times), and through the appropriate Sacraments.
During Lent as in other seasons, we are called to "inwardly digest" the Scriptures. We seek to allow Biblical stories, teachings, and ideas to permeate our hearts, minds, and souls. Private and common prayer should also be a constant element in Christian life, and Lent is a good time for additional or special devotions. Then we have the visible, tangible expressions of the living Word in the Sacraments. We have received the gift of Baptism, and in our devotions, we should renew our Baptismal commitments daily. And of course, there is the Lord's Supper or Eucharist. Christ offers to nourish and refresh our souls in a unique way in Holy Communion. So as we pursue our Lenten disciplines, let us seek increased spiritual nourishment by being more open to Christ as He comes to us through Word, prayer, and Sacrament.
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