The Eucharist, also known as Holy Communion, is one of the most significant sacraments in the Christian faith. It is a commemoration of the Last Supper, where Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples and instructed them to do the same in his memory. As Christians, we believe that the bread and wine are transformed into the body and blood of Christ, and that by partaking in the Eucharist, we are sharing in his sacrifice and receiving his grace.
However, the true meaning of the Eucharist goes beyond the ritualistic aspect of the sacrament. When Christ said “Do this in remembrance of me,” he was not just referring to the act of receiving Communion during Mass. He was also calling us to practice his teachings in our daily lives.
The first meaning of “Do this” is ceremonial. It is important to participate in the Eucharist ritual so that the significance of the sacrament can sink in our hearts. But the second meaning of “Do this” is to practice it. We need to embody and experience the Divine truth, not just think or discuss or believe it. In other words, we need to live out the message of the Eucharist in our lives.
This Holy Thursday, the emphasis is on “doing.” If we want to understand the mystery of the Eucharist, we have to participate in it, embody it, and experience it. Most of the time, we are so focused on the ritual of the Eucharist that we forget its true meaning. After we partake of the Eucharist every Sunday, we forget all about it. But our life is supposed to be a life of thanksgiving, where we truly understand what the Eucharist is all about.
When Jesus washed his disciples’ feet during the Last Supper, he was demonstrating his humility and love for them. He told Peter that he might not understand why he was washing their feet, but he would truly understand it by doing it himself and washing others’ feet. This act of service is also one of the practical ways to “Do this in remembrance of me.” We are called to live a life of service and humility, just as Jesus did.
In conclusion, the Eucharist is not just a ritual to be performed during Mass. It is a call to action, a reminder to live out Christ’s teachings in our daily lives. This Holy Thursday, let us focus on the practical aspect of the Eucharist, on living out its message of love and service, and on truly embodying the grace and sacrifice that it represents.
