Today’s Gospel from Chapter 6 of John is at the end of the famous ‘Bread of Life’ discourse. The people had just heard Jesus say that unless you eat his flesh and drink his blood you have no life in you and will die. We read that this statement scandalised not just the Jews, but even his own disciples, who complained ‘this teaching is difficult, who can accept it’ and some ceased to follow Him.

For our prayer today, let us ponder something in our faith that is a stumbling block; something that is blocking us from entering into deeper communion with the Trinity. Let us pray that we can have faith like Simon Peter, who I am sure was confused and uncertain like the others, but who recognised that Jesus had ‘the words of eternal life.’ Even when we don’t understand or question whether God’s teaching is too hard to follow, may we admit to ourselves, like Peter, that choosing God’s ways is preferable to walking away.

Lord Jesus, where else would I go? You have the words of eternal life. Draw me deeper into your loving embrace. Amen

by Dom Dougherty