Through the teachings to his disciples, Gospel stories, and his life on earth, Jesus confirmed that he is the great I AM. He is the Savior of the world, sent to redeem and reconcile sinners to God. His earthly mission was, and continues to be, to give purpose and meaning to those who believe in him and the one who sent him.

At the last supper, after he had washed their feet, Jesus instructed his disciples: “Amen. Amen, I say to you, whoever receives the one I send receives me….” This, too, is our directive to live as Jesus lived, love as Jesus loved, and be who Jesus was, so that God’s kingdom may come, and God’s will may be done on earth as it is in heaven.

We acknowledge our mission at every Eucharistic celebration as we offer praise, express gratitude, seek reconciliation, and pray for needs. These are the four purposes of our Catholic act of worship. We participate in the commemoration and living memory of the Last Supper. We are then sent forth with the command to “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.” We respond: “Thanks be to God.” May we acknowledge and appreciate our calling to share the Gospel and to be Jesus’ presence in the world.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ, at every celebrated Eucharist, we eat your body and drink your blood, professing through our faith that you are the great I AM. We pray for the grace to become what we receive.