The Eucharist

The Eucharist

“While they were eating, Jesus took a piece of bread, gave a prayer of thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples.  “Take it,” he said, “this is my body.”  
“Then he took a cup, gave thanks to God, and handed it to them; and they all drank from it.  Jesus said, “This is my blood which is poured out for many, my blood which seals God’s covenant.” (Mark 14: 22 – 24)

As I reflect on the above passage, I come to realize that for us, the Eucharist represents not just a great mystery but also one of the greatest acts of faith we are called upon to make.  I have the great privilege to take part a couple of times a week in the reenactment of this act in obedience to Christ.

In the Eucharist, I receive a piece of white host looking no different from what it looked like before the consecration.  It tastes and feels exactly the same before and after the consecration.  Then I receive the cup of wine, in every material way similar before and after the consecration.   Yet I believe that the host and the wine are the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.  

What is the authority for such an amazing confession?  The above passage, Mark 14: 22 – 24 is one.  Similar passages in Matthew and Luke is another.  A very important authority for this belief is the chapter 6 of the Gospel of St. John.  To crown it all, is the constant belief and practice of the Church in the Eucharist in the past 2000 years.   The Tradition with regard to the Eucharist is rock solid.  Is it possible that the Holy Spirit who has been promised to lead and guide the Church into all truth will deceive the Church in such an important matter?   And for so long?   If the faith and practice of the Church in this one act is an error, where do we have a guarantee of truth?

Thank you Jesus for the gift of the Eucharist.