1 Kings 19: 4-8; Psalm 33(34): 2-9; Eph 4:30-5:2; John 6: 41-51
Elijah had defeated the gods of Baal by pouring water over the firewood, and then asking God to accept his sacrifice, thus bringing rain to end the drought he had predicted. The king’s wife, Jezebel, had brought worship of Baal to Israel, so she was very angry, and sought to kill Elijah, who fled in despair. But today we hear how God encourages Elijah to continue his journey to Mount Sinai, and, as during the Exodus, God provides food and water for the journey.
The psalm invites us to praise the Lord, who will help us in time of need.
Our readings from the letter to the Ephesians continue with rules for the new life, teasing out the real meaning of the Ten Commandments. But in loving others we must be prepared to suffer persecution and even death, as Christ did.
Jesus’ teaching on the Eucharist in Chapter 6 of John’s Gospel continues. Last week we heard Jesus say “I am the bread of life”. This week Jesus takes it further: just as God fed Elijah, and had fed the Israelites with manna and quails during the Exodus, Jesus feeds us with the “living bread”. Even more: the bread that Jesus gives is his own flesh. Next week we hear reactions to this astounding claim.
Psalm Response: Taste and see that the Lord is good.