In the First Reading today we hear the message, “All who are thirsty, come to the water!” We love the refreshing water during the hot summer months.  The water gives us great satisfaction but how often do we mistake that satisfaction for materialistic things?  We hear promises of great deals at the store, great parties coming up, or great outings that will guarantee you fun.  Yet when we arrive, all the promises have failed and we are not satisfied.Â
In our Gospel Reading, we hear the story of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes. The disciples are afraid that they may go hungry due to limited amount of food. They forget that they are in the presence of the Bread of Life himself, Jesus Christ, who offers us the water of renewal. He will ensure that all are satisfied. It is not the loaves and fishes that he changes, it is us who are changed because we are protected and refreshed by the infinite love of Christ.
How have you been changed by Christ’s presence in your life? Perhaps our search for the water, that offers to renew us, has always been right within ourselves. As you pray, do you feel the fears melt away and the love of Christ pour over you? The water reminds us not to hoard the Bread of Life but instead invites all we meet to the feast of the loaves and fishes for that is where we receive true satisfaction through Christ our Lord.
