Communion

Communion: antithesis of alienation

We live in a society with many paradoxes. I'm thankful that Jesus Christ came and brought us the sacrament of Communion. In so doing he really shared His vital nature, his body and blood, and established His new covenant. The operant word was "share." Take this and eat.

Contrast these sentiments with the situation of many of our brethren who are the unfortunate, forgotten, left behind. For obvious or hidden reasons that vary from one case to another, there are many people who do not share at the table of Our Lord. Perhaps they have been in prison. Maybe they have contracted an infectious condition that requires them to be separated or aloof. Due to depression, anxiety, or paranoia, they may shun the company of others.

These brethren are alienated in the here and now, but are not forgotten by Christ. As God's children we are asked to extend a helping hand. Whatsoever we do for the least of my people, that you do unto Me.

Matthew 25: 35-40 "‘For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; 36 naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? 38 ‘And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? 39 ‘When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40 “The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’ "

Before coming to the Lord's Table at Mass and receiving the Holy Eucharist, a candidate for Catholic initiation would have to go through a formal process. However, they can be welcomed into the community in fellowship, love and service before they even know that their brother is working to serve the Lord. Will I answer my call to serve?