The Eucharist is derived from the Greek εὐχαριστία transliterated as eucharistia; gratitude, or thankfulness for God's grace; the abundance that the divine mystery grants each of us to share with those whom He guides us to assist.
As Catholics we are also familiar with communion derived from the Greek κοινωνία, transliterated as koinónia participation, or fellowship, or community.
The Last Supper counsels us that in the middle of our community of believers resides The Saviour sharing His gift of life, and abundance with all who answer His invitation to let Him serve us, that we in our turn may remember to serve all who Our Saviour sends to us to share in our prosperity.
The Last Supper sets the example that the invited guest should emulate, by following the footsteps of Our Saviour, when He washed the feet of His apostles.
John 13
6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”
7 Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
8 “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”
Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”
The Servant went on his knees to wash the feet of His friends, including Judas Iscariot who would betray Jesus, with an awareness among His apostles that to participate in Our Father's banquet, all who are called to partake in God's love for His children are cordially invited to follow The Saviour's example.
“I am the true vine,” The Saviour declared (John 15:1). We are branches (John 15:5) who derive our nourishment and support from the strength and goodness of that vine. And we can depend on Him, and receive His assistance with all of our needs and troubles.
end
Responses