Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood remains in me and I in him.

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Third Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 6:52-59*

*First Reading : Acts 9:1-20*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 117:1bc, 2*

*Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood remains in me and I in him.*

*1) Union with Christ*

This verse speaks of an intimate abiding relationship between the believer and Christ. 

The word *“remains”* suggests a continuous, living communion. 

It mirrors Jesus’ words in John 15:4-5: *“Remain in me, as I remain in you... I am the vine, you are the branches.”*

Eating His flesh and drinking His blood is not merely symbolic—it indicates an interior participation in the life of Christ. 

Through the Eucharist, Christ lives in the believer, and the believer is drawn into the very life of God.

*2) The Eucharist as Spiritual Nourishment*

This verse is traditionally understood in the context of the Eucharist (Holy Communion). 

Just as physical food sustains the body, so the Body and Blood of Christ sustains the soul. 

Jesus is offering spiritual sustenance, giving His very self for the life of the world (John 6:51). 

This echoes Matthew 26:26-28, where Jesus says at the Last Supper: *“Take and eat; this is my body... Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant.”*

*3) The Mystery of the Incarnation and Sacrifice*

To eat His Flesh and drink His Blood is to partake in the mystery of the Incarnation and the Cross.

Jesus gave Himself wholly—body and soul—for our redemption. 

In receiving Him sacramentally, we are united to that saving act and to the person of Christ who suffered, died, and rose again. 

It is an invitation to enter into His Passion and be transformed by His love.

*4) Eternal Life Begins Now*

In the wider context of John 6:54–58, Jesus links this eating and drinking with eternal life: *“Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day.”*

Eternal life is not merely future—it begins now through this union. 

It is a present participation in the divine life that culminates in resurrection

*5) A Call to Faith and Commitment*

Jesus’ words in John 6 scandalized many of His listeners, and many turned away (John 6:66). 

The verse challenges believers to accept in faith the mystery of Christ’s self-gift. 

It is not just about ritual, but about trust, surrender, and ongoing relationship. 

As Peter responded in verse 68: *“Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*