1 John 4:7-10/ Psalms 72:1-2, 3-4, 7-8/ Mark 6:34-44
“Jesus saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them”. In another Jesus says “be compassionate as my heavenly Father is compassionate”. Today’s gospel does not only draw our minds to the miracle of the multiplication of loaves but also to the miraculous effect of compassion. To be compassionate is to recognize the suffering of others and then take action to help. A compassionate person embodies a tangible expression of love for those who are suffering. The first reading uses the word love for compassion; then it says “let us love one another”. He who cannot love cannot be compassionate. The Bible is filled with stories of compassion. 1 Peter 3:8 gave a perfect summary of today’s message. It says “Be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.”
Let us pray
My Jesus, I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love You above all things, and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.
