Gospel: John 6: 51-58
Over the centuries a fascination regarding the Holy Grail - the cup Jesus used at the Last Supper - has existed among Christians. Even in our post-religious age a number of movies exist regarding the search for this holy relic. In fact, a number of claims already exist alleging that this specific cup is the actual cup Jesus used at the first Eucharist.
Leaving aside the fact that since the Last Supper was a Passover Seder meal and multiple cups were used, we might well ask ourselves whether it matters whether we have the actual cup Jesus used. Is it not more important to embody and live out what the cup means and the ritual action of the Eucharist involves? The possession of a relic is a fine thing, but it has no value if we do not live what it signifies for us. To be present at the Eucharist is important too, but if we do not practice what it imparts then it has no meaning.
The Eucharist is our imperative to initiate and invite others to table fellowship, to communion with one another at the table. To partake of communion is to become the Lord Jesus, to give oneself in loving service to others - to commit oneself to healing, liberating, and nourishing others through deeds of mercy. To be a Eucharistic people is to be merciful, meek, pure of heart, peacemakers. It is to embody the Beatitudes and live as the Lord Jesus himself lived.
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