First Reading:  Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 14b-16

Manna from Heaven

How has God cared for you? How have you responded to his care?

In a long discourse/commentary on the Law, Moses used the language of parent and child to symbolize the Exodus experience. God cared for his people, as a father cared for his dependent children. In his wisdom, he provided everything the people needed for the long journey, including food. Yet, even this dependent relationship had a point: life required, not only food, but the Word of God. [8:2-3]

However, dependence was a two-edged sword. It could encourage trust. Or, it could spawn pride, resentment, and rebellion. Even in dependence, the people had a choice. So, Moses gave a brief history of God's initiative. "Remember," Moses said to the people, "remember how God cared for you!" In the end, the water from the rock and the manna from heaven were signs of God's compassion. But, even they were a means to an end: a relationship with God. [8:14b-16]

Eucharist is a sign of God's compassion. It reminds us what God has done and will do for us. But, it, too, is a means to an end. As the full presence of the risen Lord, it can bring us into a deep relationship with God. We only need to depend upon God, trust him as his child, to make it so.

When you receive Eucharist this Sunday, reflect on what God has done in your life.