This is a reflection on the Mass readings of the day.
In addition to the extreme drama of this evening’s readings, there is an element of them that is absolutely startling.
This is the climax of Jesus’ life, and the institution of the Eucharist is the climactic moment of His gift of self for us and to us down through the generations. This is HIS moment.
And yet, in line after line of each of today’s readings, Jesus–and God, in His message to Moses and Aaron in the first reading–He makes it all about us. About OUR participation in His saving mystery. As if we had the central role in the salvation of humankind, and not He Himself!
Examples from the readings that center attention on us: “Do this in remembrance of me.” (second reading) “I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.” (gospel) “How shall I make a return to the LORD for all the good he has done for me? The cup of salvation I will take up, and I will call upon the name of the LORD.” (psalm)
A startling message leaps from the pages of Scripture today: While of course, Jesus’ act and none other is the all-powerful wellspring of salvation, He is relying on us to take up the cup of salvation, to follow the model He has left for us, to do this in remembrance of Him. Even as He is all-powerful, yet we are co-protagonists with Him in the act of salvation.
Central to this, of course, is the repetition of the Mass throughout the ages. But we must remember: Every time we offer Him our lives freely as that bread, that cup, is elevated, we augment the reach and application of the all-powerful salvation won in Christ. He chose to need us; and to fulfill that need, our role is marvelously simple: We must simply give Him our lives, with all their sufferings and joys, and strive to fulfill His will, as He fulfilled His Father’s.
Ideas for conversation with the Lord: Adore Jesus silently at the very moment of His “yes” to the Father in Gethsemane–His “yes” for us. Adore Him; thank Him; and offer Him your life in imitation.
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