THE EUCHARIST OUR HIGHEST RECOMPENSE
As we journey towards celebrating the solemnity of Corpus Christi, we are confronted with this beautiful text of Mark about our recompense. After the rich young man goes away sad, Jesus declares that detachment from what we love is the way to the eternal reward. Celebrating the Body and Blood of Christ brings us into detachment. Jesus abandons all his glory and descends not only to save us through the mystery of the cross but also, much more importantly, to remain with us.
Saint Peter Julian Eymard asks us to understand the mystery of the Eucharist as the gift of self. Nothing for me, not even people, nothing by me… (Saint Peter Julian Eymard, Great Retreat of Rome). In the light of Saint Paul who says Dilexit me et tradidit Semetipsum pro me (he loved me and gave himself for me), therefore I live; yet it is not I, but Christ who lives in me. (Galatians 2:20).
Dear friends, a eucharistic life is a life of total abandonment to Christ. It is also a life where we find joy in fraternity. We surrender all our life to Christ, yet through our consecration, we see a family that welcomes us – a eucharistic family concerned about our well-being, biological family, and spiritual health.
Special thanks to Saint Ann province for all the occasions of gathering for us to renew ourselves and our fraternity. Special thanks to all the members of the Aggregation and all associates for the lively eucharistic communities. May we embrace, therefore, the Eucharist as our current joy and the bridge that leads us to eternal joy. Wishing you all happy celebrations of the solemnity of Corpus Christi.
Let us pray
Most merciful Father, we thank you for the gift of your son. We even thank you more for his presence in us through the mystery of the Eucharist. In this mystery, we learn to abandon ourselves more to you. May we then celebrate it worthily, adore it profoundly, and proclaim it prophetically for your greater glory. Amen.
