Homily for the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Throughout our lives, we seek things of lasting value that can enrich us and help us grow. When we find something truly valuable, such as a book, poem, movie, music, painting, or building, we often return to it.

Hopefully, though, we come to realize that what we truly value are not objects or things, but people. A good friend means so much more to us than a good book or piece of music. Parents value nothing more than their children. For those in love, the most cherished treasure is the one who is loved. The value of all else pales in comparison. We want the people we love to live forever, which is why the death or loss of a loved one is such a heart-wrenching experience.

In today's Gospel, the crowds that Jesus fed in the wilderness come back looking for Him and wanting more of the bread He had provided. Jesus seizes the opportunity to guide them toward something more enduring. He counsels them, saying, "Do not work for food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life."

Jesus' perspective is not focused on this world, but on eternity. When He speaks of what truly lasts, He means what will last into eternity. For Jesus, what is of lasting value is what will continue to have value in heaven. It is hard to keep that perspective of eternity before us because we are not just meant for eternity but we are also meant to live our lives on earth. It can be difficult to keep both in our sights.

While Jesus' ultimate focus is on eternity, He also values our earthly experiences. He came to show us how to live this earthly life through His teachings and example. He devoted Himself to meeting the primary needs of those He met: the sick, the grieving, the hungry, the poor, the lonely, and the stranger. He instructed us to do the same, stressing that what we do for others, we do for Him. By living in this way, we are preparing ourselves to live forever. Those who live by the values of the kingdom of God will inherit it.

May we know that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and may our dedication to Him lead us into the eternal life He came to offer.