Daily reflection _ images of a magnificent banquet

IMAGES OF A MAGNIFICENT BANQUET  
In the Mass we have an image of the magnificent banquet of heaven.
Deacon John Ruscheinsky
Isaiah painted a picture of the great day of the Lord in images of a magnificent banquet, "a feast of rich food and choice wine." The splendid meal will be as joyful as it will be sumptuous, for "the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces; he will destroy death forever."
In the Mass we have an image of the magnificent banquet of heaven. The image, however, is already the reality by anticipation. In the Mass the Lord provides for us, His people, not a feast of rich food and choice wines, but the spiritual nourishment of the body and blood of Jesus Christ, which gives us great hope during this Advent season.
Jesus our Redeemer has brought us great hope. "The Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces." In today's Gospel we can read, how Jesus' heart was moved with pity for the crowd. He didn't send them away hungry!
Points to Pray and Ponder: The psalmist brings us to this truth: The Lord is my shepherd. During this Advent compassion comes in many forms, a visit the sick, a word of compassion to those who are struggling this time of the year. Give gifts and food to the hungry and those most in need.