Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17 speaks to God’s power to bless Israel even through an outsider, Balaam, hired to curse them. His prophecy foretells a future king, or Messiah, who will come from Jacob/Israel as a “star” and “scepter,” defeating enemies and establishing a glorious kingdom. This passage serves as a powerful reminder that God’s blessings can’t be cursed and that his plans will ultimately be fulfilled, even through unwilling vessels. Eucharist is a Sacrament of blessing. Let us bless people as part of Christmas preparation and become a living Star to proclaim Jesus.

The Eucharist can be understood as a berakha (Hebrew) because the Greek word “Eucharist” means “thanksgiving,” which is a direct translation of the Hebrew word berakha, meaning “Praise and Thanks.” Both terms refer to a Jewish prayer of blessing and thanksgiving for God’s works, particularly during meals. The structure of Eucharistic prayers reflects this, beginning with praise for God’s creation, continuing with thanksgiving for redemption, and concluding with supplication for the future.

So, let us bless God and people by acknowledging and worshiping God through a heart of praise and a life of gratitude and obedience. Let us intercede for others as we pray for their needs, for healing in places of pain, and for integrity in leadership. And let us put our faith into action by serving others in practical ways, such as sharing meals that build community, meeting their needs, or simply spending time with them.

At the end of each Eucharist, we are sent forth as blessings to others to speak life to them without judgment. As we listen to their stories —hopes, pains, and dreams —we bless them with respect and understanding. And as we share our stories of faith, we can deepen our understanding of the blessings God bestows on us.

Let Us Pray:

“Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation, for through your goodness we have received the bread and wine we offer you: fruit of the earth and work of human hands, it will become for us the bread of life and a cup of Joy.”