WE EAT HIS BODY, AND HE LIVES IN US FOREVER

WE EAT HIS BODY, AND HE LIVES IN US FOREVER

A Gospel Reflection for Corpus Christi - June 7, 2026

When a little child once explained that he ate rice before Mass so the Body of Christ would rest above all else and take command of everything within him, it might have sounded naïve. Yet, in that simple wisdom lies a profound truth: a call to let Christ reign in every part of our lives. Children remind us of what it means to approach the Eucharist with awe and reverence, and their innocent devotion teaches us to seek purity, love, and wisdom unclouded by cynicism. Let us reclaim that childlike faith and honor the Eucharist as the true center of our hearts and actions.

If you were blessed to receive Holy Communion as a child, take a moment to thank those who guided you, especially your parents, teachers, catechists, or guardians. They gifted you with a foundation that supports you every step of your journey of faith. Recently, a young man visited me with his mother on Mother’s Day, asking for a blessing. He had traveled from out of state just to take her to Mass, thinking it was a gift for her. In truth, by putting his faith first, he gave himself the greatest gift, which is renewed grace and a deeper bond with God and family. Cherish those moments and recognize how the Eucharist strengthens not only our faith, but our relationships and purpose.

In my family, preparing for Sunday Mass began with Saturday confession, which is a habit my mother insisted on, even when we maintained that we had nothing to confess. She lovingly reminded us that honesty and obedience matter, and even small faults are worth bringing to God. This routine left us ready and eager to receive Holy Communion, with no barriers between us and Christ. That practice shaped my entire life, leading me not only to celebrate the Eucharist as a priest, but also to help others find peace in reconciliation. The Eucharist is not just an obligation; it is the wellspring and summit of Christian life, calling us to continual renewal and unity with God.

The Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ is not just a ritual, but it is a powerful celebration of God’s unfailing love for us. In the Eucharist, we are united as one body, sharing in Christ’s sacrifice and receiving the ultimate gift. This sacrament binds us to one another, calling us to live lives of love and self-giving. Every time we gather at the altar, our worship becomes an act of gratitude and adoration, reminding us to bring that spirit of love, unity, and service into our daily lives.

St. Paul reminds us that without the Body and Blood of Christ, we lack true life within us. Jesus, the living bread from heaven, offers Himself so that we may have life eternal. By receiving Him in the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and prepared for the heavenly banquet. This is the heart of our Christian journey. As we celebrate, let us remember St. Augustine’s words: “Imitate what you receive.” The Eucharist is not just a ritual, it is a call to unity, to love, and to live as Christ for others. It nourishes, transforms, and purifies us, empowering us to be living signs of charity and hope in the world.

Lord Jesus, Bread of Life, You give Yourself to us in the Holy Eucharist, nourishing our souls and uniting us as one body in Your love. Strengthen our faith, renew our hearts, and help us to imitate Your self-giving love in every moment. May we always approach Your altar with gratitude, humility, and awe. Empower us to live as true disciples, bringing hope, peace, and charity to the world. Remain with us always and prepare us for the eternal banquet where we will rejoice with You forever. Amen.

by Father John Offor