I am the Living Bread

Dear Saint Mark’s Community,

This week I invite you to reflect deeply on the profound words of Jesus in John 6:51-58. In this passage, we encounter one of the most challenging and yet deeply comforting teachings of our Lord:

"I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh."

These words remind us that Jesus offers Himself as the sustenance we need for eternal life. He is not speaking of physical nourishment but of a spiritual sustenance that nourishes our souls and draws us closer to the divine.

As we read further, Jesus says, "Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day; for my flesh is true food and my blood is true drink." This teaching, which may seem difficult at first glance, invites us to a deeper understanding of the Eucharist—a sacred mystery where we partake in the body and blood of Christ, not merely as a ritual, but as a life-giving encounter with our Savior.

In this holy meal, we are united with Christ and with one another. The Eucharist becomes a communal experience where we, as the Body of Christ, are nourished together. It is in this sacred act that we are reminded of Christ's ultimate sacrifice for us, a sacrifice that brings us into eternal communion with God.

As we lean into this new program year at Saint Mark's, let these words encourage us to see beyond the surface of our gatherings. Each time we partake in the Eucharist, we are not just remembering Christ's sacrifice but also receiving the grace to live out His teachings in our daily lives. This passage calls us to embody the love we receive from Christ, encouraging us to love the Lord and love each other in all our interactions.

Let this reflection on John 6:51-58 inspire us as we recommit ourselves to the mission of our Cathedral. Whether through our ministries, property meetings, outreach initiatives, or collaborative programs, let us move forward with the understanding that we are nourished and sustained by Christ, Himself.

As we embrace this new season, let’s remember that our work, both within and outside the Cathedral, is a reflection of the love we receive from the "Bread of Life." May this truth empower us to serve more fully, love more deeply, and live more faithfully.

I look forward to seeing you this weekend as we gather in fellowship, reflection, and worship. Let us come together with open hearts, ready to be nourished by the living bread that is Christ Jesus.

In Christ’s peace,

The Rev. Timothy M. Kingsley 

Provost