The Bread of Life and the Scattered Church: Reflection for the Third Week of Easter
The early Church, just days after witnessing the power of the Resurrection, found itself under intense persecution. Stephen, the first martyr, had just been stoned, and now Saul—who would later become Paul—was ravaging the Church, dragging believers from their homes and handing them over to prison. The believers scattered, fleeing Jerusalem for the countryside of Judea and Samaria. Yet, even in fear and flight, they preached the Word.
This is not the story of a broken movement, but of one being divinely propelled outward. As the Gospel spread beyond Jerusalem, God used what looked like defeat to advance the mission of salvation. Philip’s journey to Samaria was not accidental. He proclaimed Christ there, and through signs, healings, and deliverance from evil spirits, many turned their hearts to the Lord. The scattered Church became a missionary Church.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks plainly: “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” These words must have rung in the ears of those early Christians as they left behind everything familiar. They had come to know the true bread, not in security, but in suffering and faith. Their physical lives were uncertain, but their souls were fed by a divine assurance.
Jesus also promises that He will not reject anyone who comes to Him and that He will raise them on the last day. For the Church under persecution, these words were a source of comfort, hope, and mission. Even as believers were rejected by the world, they were being welcomed eternally by Christ.
Reflection Question:
Where in your life is God using discomfort, disruption, or rejection to send you deeper into mission? Are you trusting in the Bread of Life to sustain you—not just in moments of peace, but especially in trial?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, Bread of Life, feed me with your presence and give me strength to proclaim you even when the path is hard. Use every scattering in my life to bring your Word to new places and people. Amen.
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Did You Pray Today?
Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God.
Take a moment now to pray:
The Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance.
Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace
Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light.
Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence.
May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.