Today, as we celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, we are reminded that the Holy Eucharist has a variety of rich meanings. Some would prefer to see the Eucharist as a meal of thanksgiving. It is a celebration of God’s good works in Jesus. Others would emphasize the Eucharistic celebration as a memorial. It is a way of remembering. Jesus himself commanded, “Do this in memory of me.” Unlike remembering people when we browse over a picture album, Jesus becomes really present again in his Word and in the form of bread and wine. Others would call the Eucharist as a new covenant, a dialogue between God and his people mediated by the priest. In the Eucharist, we renew our pledge to be God’s people, and he assures us of his abiding presence and protection.
As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, let us examine our understanding and attitude towards this most august sacrament. We can discuss so many issues concerning the Eucharist, but we cannot tackle them all in one session. Suffice to say, however, that the Mass is not just a meal, or a fellowship or an entertainment presentation. Rather, the Mass is the one eternal sacrifice of Jesus that he offers to the heavenly Father in atonement for our sins.
