Each time I pray in front of our new tabernacle I have been struck by the power of these elements as the definitive symbol of Jesus' presence in our world. Not only in grand cathedrals or libraries of words does God visit us. Not only in prophets' speeches or laws set in stone. But in simple gifts of broken bread and poured wine. And at these times I recall that the action of being broken and poured out is the core of what we believe: our God poured himself out in love for us in Christ; Jesus was broken unto death for us so that we might be made whole; the Spirit gives us strength and courage to face the daily breakings and pourings that make up our lives and every time anyone, anywhere shares bread or passes a cup with those in need, our God is really present.
Praying there also reminds me that following the Trinity's example, this pattern is repeated in all faithful Christian lives too. The martyrs, the saints and all of those we know who have gone before us, having led lives of selfless devotion, continue to embody the Body and Blood of Christ we venerate.
And so to us. When we come forward, when we say ‘Amen’ and receive into our hands the Bread of Life and the Cup of Salvation we too take on to ourselves the invitation to become what we receive: a body broken in love, blood poured out in hope that the world may be saved from itself and find life to the full in Christ.
© Richard Leonard SJ
