THE WORD BECAME FLESH

Monday of 24^th Week in Ordinary time, 2022

1Cor 11:17-26, 33

Ps 40

Luke 7:1-10

I am not worthy

Our first reading today (1Corinthians 11:17-26.33) is both a correction and an instruction on how people should behave when they come together for worship. Paul insists on the real presence of Jesus in the meal that is shared, and the cup that is blessed; he, therefore, questions, why some should have their fill and others, go hungry. The meal was meant to unite, why has it become a source of division in the Corinthian community? “For in the first place, when you assemble as a church,  I hear that there are divisions among you…” This writing of Paul suggests that at this time people were still bringing their bread and wine to the gathering. That accounts for the complaint, “For in eating, each one goes ahead with his meal, and one is hungry and another is drunk. Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the Church of God and humiliate those who have nothing?” A Eucharistic celebration is a place where no one should feel inferior. Today, the share of the Eucharist is the same for the rich and the poor. The Eucharist teaches that just as we are fed by God, we must look out for the interest of everyone.

Today's (Luke 7:1-10) is an example of great faith in Jesus, by one who is from outside of Israel. He was a high-ranking official in his profession but recognizes his weakness and helplessness in the face of the sickness of his servant. In the first place, out of respect and honor, he did not approach Jesus himself, he sent some elders who told Jesus, “He is worthy to have you do this for him…” They based their judgment on the fact that the man had contributed immensely to the synagogue.  When the centurion knew Jesus was coming, he sent his friends to say, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof…But say the word and let my servant be healed…” Jesus saw great faith in the man and marveled at this uncommon faith in his ability, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith,” and so granted his wish. The words of this centurion have become a prayer we recite at Mass before receiving communion. We are not worthy to have Jesus come into us but as God, he comes out of love. We must also learn to welcome others in the name of God and treat them with love and care.

Let us pray: Lord, I thank you for your love which excels every other thing. Help us too to become bread broken for others and shared until all are fed. Amen.

+Remain blessed