For My flesh is true food, and My blood is true drink.

John 6:53–55

53 Jesus said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you. 54 Whoever eats* my flesh and drinks and my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. 55 For My flesh is true food, and My blood is true drink.

REFLECTION

The Opposites Game: A Flawed Perspective

In our world, we often see things as opposing forces – good vs. evil, light vs. dark, heat vs. cold, life vs. death. But a closer look reveals a different reality. Evil isn’t an equal force to good; it’s the absence of good. Darkness isn’t a rival to light; it’s simply the lack of it. Cold isn’t the opposite of heat; it’s the absence of warmth. And death isn’t an opposing force to life; it’s the loss of life.

The Importance of the Eucharist: Life Itself

This understanding connects beautifully to the Gospel’s message. When Jesus says those who don’t partake in the Eucharist “do not have life within you,” he doesn’t mean they have a competing “death force” inside. He means they lack the very source of life – the Eucharist. 

Seeing the Eucharist for What It Is: A Gift, Not a Chore

Sometimes, attending Mass and receiving Communion feels like a duty, a favor we do for God. But Jesus offers the Eucharist as a gift, the most profound gift of all. It’s the gateway to eternal life, and without it, we are spiritually famished, lacking God’s presence.

A Motivational Tool: The Consequence of Absence

While focusing on the positive aspects of the Eucharist is ideal, considering the negative consequences can also be a motivator. The absence of the Eucharist, the loss of God’s life-giving presence, should inspire a “holy fear” within us – a gift from God, actually. This fear motivates us towards a deeper desire for the Eucharist.

Self-Reflection and Recommitment

Think about your own approach to the Eucharist. Do you see it as a chore, or as the life-giving source it truly is? Reflect on its immense importance and recommit yourself to faithfully receiving this precious gift.

A Prayer of Gratitude and Desire

Lord Jesus, Your Body and Blood are the true source of life for all who receive you in faith. Thank you for this incredible gift, the Eucharist. Fill me always with a deep hunger and thirst for You. Jesus, I trust in You.