The Real Deal
“For my Flesh is true food,”
I have a love/hate relationship with John 6. I love it because I’m proud to be Catholic and honored to receive our Lord in the Eucharist. And I hate it - because it’s super controversial and incredibly difficult to explain to pretty much anyone who isn’t Catholic.
Let’s be honest - this scripture is a doozy. It’s a cornerstone of our Catholic faith - but it gets messy in Christian circles and can be pretty jarring for those unfamiliar with Christianity in general. The word, “cannibal” tends to emerge - it’s unfortunate, but it’s true. I find myself wondering,
What do you say when people ask about the Eucharist?
Since I’m asking the question, I thought you might be as well. (If not, who doesn’t need a refresher?) I’ve pulled together a few resources that might be helpful when fielding these questions out in the wild. Enjoy!
How do we know that Jesus is really present in the Eucharist, that it’s not just symbolic?
How do we know that the Eucharist isn’t just a symbol?
Why does Jesus want us to eat His flesh and drink His blood?
Father,
Thank You for giving Yourself to us in the Eucharist. Thank You for loving us with Your own self, for sacrificing Yourself for us every day. Thank You for the wisdom of our teachers in the church who can help us to convey the truths that You’ve meant for us.
Father, open our hearts to understand Your vision for the Eucharist - for the bread and the wine You so generously offer to us. Help us to conceive Your heart for us and for the Eucharist.
God, we love You. We’re so grateful to You for all Your care and attention. Amen.