This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.
Today we rejoice in the gift of Christ’s Real Presence in the Most Holy Eucharist, His Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity given to us. What an awesome gift!
The Real Presence of Christ found in the appearance of bread and wine defines Eucharist. The building up of the Kingdom of God also defines Eucharist. Jesus Christ did not separate these two at the Last Supper. Jesus said the words of consecration at the Last Supper. During the meal Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to his disciples. “Take this and eat it,” he said, “this is my body”. Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them. “All must drink from it,” he said, “for this is my blood, the blood of the covenant, to be poured out in behalf of man for the forgiveness of sins.” (Mt26:26-28) Jesus also washed the feet of the apostles at the Last Supper. Do you understand what I just did for you? You address me as “Teacher” and “Lord”, and fittingly enough, for that is what I am. But if I washed your feet – I who am Teacher and Lord – then you must wash each other’s feet. What I just did was to give you an example: as I have done, so you must do. (Jn13:12-15) Christ is really and truly present in those that the Church serves.
In 1Cor 11:17-22, 27-34, St. Paul tells us that to worthily receive the Body of Blood of Christ in the Eucharist, we must take care of the needs of those in our midst – the least of the brothers and sisters in Christ. We are called to be Christ, whom we receive in the Eucharist to others!
May God bless us all always!
Deacon Mike