The other day, I found myself telling someone, “I may not be wealthy in material possessions or money, but I am rich in having a loving, close-knit family and true, loyal friends.” I added, “And that’s good enough for me.” I realized that one can possess all the wealth in the world and still suffer from loneliness, lacking love and care. I hold this insight dear, much like the wisdom of Solomon, who asked God for an understanding heart, as recounted in last Sunday’s First Reading.
As I discern and deepen my understanding of life, I see that it is best lived wholesomely and happily when surrounded by family and friends who stand by you during difficult times. People may hunger for food, pleasure, and material possessions, but what they crave most are enjoyable, nourishing, and comforting relationships—the love, care, and companionship these connections provide, especially in tough moments.
For me, this Sunday’s Responsorial Psalm, which speaks of the “feeding” of our Lord, represents more than just a reference to material food; it embodies the affections of unconditional love, understanding, empathy, and kindness. So when we say, “The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs,” we should remember that this also reflects the abiding presence of family members in our lives, especially during times of sickness and crisis.
I experienced this firsthand last week when my older brother fell ill and was hospitalized for a few days. It was painful to see him suffer, but he knows that he has us, his siblings, to support him and stand by him. We are his “treasures.”
Jesus’ miracle of “feeding the five thousand” often signifies its relationship to the Sacrament of the Eucharist that we celebrate week after week as a community. In this Sacrament, Jesus nourishes us with His abiding presence, filling us with His Spirit and the prayers of fellow believers and worshippers. He feeds us with His Body and Blood to bring us close to Him, grant us life, and uplift our spirits. The “bread” and “wine” we partake in are enough for everyone to help build the Body of Christ among us in the world.
May you experience the nourishment of God in Word and Sacrament in every Eucharist we celebrate.
In Christ’s love,
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.