SOLEMNITY OF THE BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST

June 14, 2009

Ex 24:3-8
Heb 9:11-15
Mk 14:12-16.22-26

Whenever I attend a celebration such as a wedding, baptism, priesthood anniversary or any other celebration, the host together with his/her family usually prepare good and delicious food which the guests actually enjoy. Eating together has a special meaning for us. The sharing of food and drink brings us closer and united with one another. We belong to one family although we come from different places, races and background.

Today, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi). This celebration reminds us how Jesus, as God and Savior, loves and cares for us that He gave His own life for our sake. During the last supper with His disciples, Jesus transformed bread and wine to be His body and blood. Jesus said, “This is my Body broken for you, and this is my Blood poured out for many.” At the end, Jesus told His disciples: “Do this in memory of me.” Jesus would like to emphasize that His love, sacrifice and care never end but will be continued by His friends and followers like us. As we gather together to remember Jesus’ offering of Himself, we recall also His sacrifice. It becomes our sacrifice to God and with Christ. And every time we celebrate and attend the Holy Eucharist, we receive His precious body and blood. When we receive Him, Jesus visits us personally and would like to stay in our hearts and be one with Him.

Jesus offered His own life for us. Let us ask ourselves, what is my own response to His love and sacrifice? Perhaps we can say to Jesus –

“That I will to be your best follower, cite a good example and be a good role model to my family, my community and to all people around me.
That I will try to be honest at all times. I will be happy looking for the truth and rejoice when I see others speak the truth. I will not be boastful to others. I will try to understand God’s message.
I will always trust in you as my true guidance and turn to God more often in prayer. I will seek the help of the Almighty. Either in times of joy or sadness, I will ask Him to light my path as I go on with the journey of my life. I will build a close relationship with You through my daily prayer.
I will be more generous in helping those in need of my service and care. I will always have time for those who are troubled, giving them my time and putting my abilities at their sacrifice. I will accept others instead of trying to change them. I will understand others, not only the words they speak but also their feelings. I will listen to them with respect and love.”

Each one of us is called by Jesus to bring His love for others. The solemnity of Corpus Christi shows us that Jesus gave up His own life for us His beloved brothers and sisters. May we, who always receive Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, bear a hundredfold fruits of kindness, joy and love. May our life become a true channel of God’s grace for others. God bless you all.


Fr. Conrad Haribaik, SVD
Sacred Heart Parish
Lacub, Abra