The body of Christ we receive in Holy Communion is given up for us and the blood we drink shed for the forgiveness of sins. As bodily nourishment restores lost strength, so the Eucharist strengthens our charity which tends to be weakened in daily life. By giving himself to us, Christ revives our love and enables us to break our disordered attachments to creatures and root ourselves in Him. Having received the gift of love, let us die to sin and live for God.
As the popular adage goes, “you are what you eat.” The Catechism tells us that, as food nourishes the body, so Jesus present in Holy Communion nourishes the soul. It especially highlights the Eucharist’s role in separating us from sin. Fr. Mike reminds us we must be open to change if Jesus is going to change us in the reception of Holy Communion. If—to use Fr. Mike’s analogy—Holy Communion is a “shower” of graces, we must ensure that we’re not wearing a raincoat. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1391-1395.
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Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.