Sunday Reflections

I may come as somewhat of a surprise that the only miracle recorded by all the gospel writers is the feeding of the multitude with five loaves and two fish.  And only John recounts the events of the following day when Jesus tells the crowd that he will give them living bread from heaven which will be nothing less than himself. “Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you.” Since the early church Catholics have seen in the feeding of the five thousand the promise of the Eucharist which became reality at the Last Supper.

Ever since we have gathered to celebrate the Eucharist and share in the Body and Blood of Christ. When we approach the altar and hear the words “the Body of Christ” and “the Blood of Christ”, we respond “Amen”. What does our “Amen”, our “yes it is”, mean? The Eucharist is food for the soul, food for our journey of faith, giving us strength to follow Jesus. “Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood you will not have life within you.” We all need this nourishment, especially those among us who are the hungriest and need this food to help them in their struggles and difficulties. 

The Eucharist is also the sacrament of our unity with Jesus and with each other.  Saint or sinner, rich or poor, all are invited to the banquet. All this is required is the proper garment – love of God and love of neighbour. 

Do I approach the table of the Lord properly prepared?