This Sunday we celebrate the feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ (Corpus Christi). It reminds us of the greatest gift ever given – the gift of Jesus – His body and blood, soul and divinity. It is the source and summit of our faith and our nourishment. It also reminds us of the tremendous sacrifice of Jesus and the burdens he took on for our salvation. He gave His body and blood – literally – that we might have a path to salvation. And He continues to give His body and blood – literally – in the Eucharist that we might be nourished for the journey. We begin the week recalling the visitation of Mary to Elizabeth, a reminder of the total giving of herself to the will of God for all of us. The actions of Jesus and Mary alike are the ultimate examples of self-sacrifice and complete humility in recognizing and submitting to the Divine Plan. Both bring great passion and zeal to their respective sacrifices.
As Vincentians, we are called to follow in these steps of humility, self-sacrifice and zeal in all we do. We offer not just our help but our very selves for those whom God brings before us. We do so nourished by our Lord Jesus through the gift of the Eucharist. Do I bring myself humbly before the Lord, seeking not only His guidance but the intimacy of the Eucharist on a frequent basis? Do I give of myself, with empathy, mercy and compassion to those whom I serve?
Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of yourself, both on the cross and in the Eucharist. I yearn for your nourishment, I yearn for your love. Give me the grace to always come before you in great humility. Allow me to accept all that you ask of me, giving freely of myself to those who are in need. Let me act with passion that I may be faithful to your spirit and example. We pray all of this in your name. Amen
Deacon Mike