The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

Genesis 14:18-20
Psalm 109(110):1-4
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Luke 9:11-17

WE GATHER TO SHARE IN THE LIFE OF CHRIST

This Sunday, we have the incredible opportunity to celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ! This remarkable feast invites us to reflect on the astonishing gift of Jesus’ self for our salvation and highlights the Eucharist’s vital role in the heartbeat of the Church.

Our readings are packed with profound insights about the Eucharist and what it truly means to embody the Church and lead lives rooted in faith. One of the most powerful reasons we gather to celebrate the Eucharist is to express our heartfelt gratitude. Just look at our first reading from Genesis (14:18-20), where the priest and king Melchizedek approaches Abram with bread and wine, offering a blessing: “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, the creator of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who delivered your foes into your hand.” Every time we come to Mass, we lift our voices in gratitude to God for the miraculous gift of His Son, who became incarnate to save us from sin and the dread of death!

In our second reading (1 Corinthians 11:23-26), St. Paul passionately recounts what was entrusted to him about those life-changing words of Jesus at the Last Supper. We believe that the bread and wine transform into the true Body and Blood of Christ! This means that Jesus’ incredible sacrifice, offered once and for all, is made present to us, allowing us to participate in that ultimate gift.

The excitement continues in our Gospel reading! After witnessing Jesus’ teachings and miraculous healings, the disciples, worried about the hungry crowds, suggest that Jesus send everyone away to find food. But Jesus responds with a challenge: “Give them some food yourselves.” Imagine the disbelief in their voices when they say, “All we have are five loaves and two fish! What can that do for so many?” But then, in a magnificent display of grace, Jesus takes their meager offering and multiplies it, ensuring everyone is satisfied!

Jesus isn’t just asking us to give a little—it’s about sharing ourselves entirely! I’m reminded of St. Louise de Marillac’s inspiring quote: “To share what one has is nothing if one does not give oneself.” That’s the essence of Jesus’ message! Even when we feel like we have little to offer, like those five loaves and two fish in the face of a multitude, Jesus can amplify our efforts beyond our imagination, especially when we unite our hearts to meet the needs of others.

It is in the Body and Blood of Jesus, the ultimate gift of Himself, that we find the strength to embrace His command to love with fervor! As we share in this incredible sacrifice, we are also called to take part in His Mission. Let’s go forth and ignite the world with love and service!

Fr Joseph Osho