Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, Year A
Deut. 8:2-3, 14B-16A 1 Cor 10:16-17 Jn 6:51-58
Theme: The Power of the Eucharist
Today our holy mother the church celebrates the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi). Our liturgy today emphasizes on the power and the importance of the Eucharist in our lives as children of God. It exemplifies God’s love for us as partakers of the food of the angels. In the first reading, Moses reminds the Israelites about the wonders of God in their lives, as they journey to the Promised Land. This reminder was necessary, because it seemed the people have forgotten where they were coming from and how God has journeyed with them so far. God fed them with manna in the desert, a gift and miracle that they never envisaged. This is also an opportunity for you and I to reflect about our journey so far with the Lord. Do you remember where you are coming from with the Lord? The correct answer to this question will help us to remain focused; even in times of challenges and difficulties like the Israelites encountered on their way to the Promised Land.
In the second reading, Saint Paul reminds us of the fact that the Eucharist unites us all as God’s children. The Eucharist is a bond that brings together all God’s children. An important question today is: is there anything that is removing you from this wonderful union of God’s people? If yes, then work on it and get united with God and his people. In the gospel reading, St. John talks about the power in the Eucharist. Jesus makes it explicitly clear ‘he who eats of my body and drinks of my blood has eternal life. This reminds me about the question raised by a seminarian some time ago about this passage. His question was, “even when the Eucharist is received unworthily”? It is possible there will be people with similar question after listening to the gospel passage. If we want to be partakers of life eternal that Jesus is talking about, then we must strive to always partake of the Eucharistic sacrifice worthily. Taking into consideration the fact that the Eucharist is like a double-edged sword; it can lead us to life eternal when it is received worthily and can stand against us when received unworthily.
In view of this, it is important for us all to reflect on what the Eucharist means to us as individuals. Do you receive the Eucharist because all those on your pew are going to receive it, or you have prepared yourself in the way of the church to receive it? Do you go for the Eucharist when you feel like going; is it optional for you? Do you find it difficult to go for the sacrament of reconciliation? Lastly, if there is anything keeping you away from the sacrament, seek for help. A reflection on these issues may help to strengthen our union with the Eucharistic Jesus. It is a necessity in our life, and it is life giving and should be encouraged that we partake of it as often as possible. Today’s feast should encourage us to remain united with Christ through partaking in the Holy Eucharist worthily. May God grant us the grace to always be in union with Christ. Peace be with you!