02/08/2026
18th Sunday in Ordinary time.
Matthew feeds the crowds whe
have followed him because he is moved with pity for them. The earlier version of Mark is even more descriptive: Jesus' heart is moved with pity for the vast crowd, for they are like sheep without a shepherd (Mk 5:34). Jesus has the heart of a shepherd who goes out to the flock. In John, in fact, Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows his sheep and who lays down his life for the flock Un 10:14-15). So what Jesus does in the Gospel story is exactly what the Lord, the Shepherd of Israel, does to the individual and the community.
He lets the sheep graze in green pastures; he sets a table of food betore the people.
Eating during meal time is not merely a bodily function; it is also spiritual nourishment, since it embodies thanksgiving, fellowship, and communion. When we Filipinos eat together at fiestas, or share food after a funeral, we do so not only to satisfy our hunger but to manifest our sharing in the joys and sorrows of our communal life.Parents tell the children to say grace before meals, to behave at table, and not to waste food because it is something sacred; moreover, they have to remember those who do not have enough to eat.
Mass Presider: Fr. Lin
August 2, 2026 | 6:00 AM
