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If you were on trial, wouldn’t you want to have solid evidence in your favor?
Of course you would! Jesus, who is challenged here by the Jewish authorities, calls on the best possible witnesses to show that he is acting on God’s behalf. There is the testimony of John the Baptist, the testimony of his own teaching and miracles, and Scripture, whose every word testifies to him (John 5:39). Yet for all that, the religious leaders still won’t accept him. What more can Jesus do to convince them?
The answer, as we already know, is the most convincing proof Jesus can give: his own life, offered as a sacrifice. It’s the testimony of divine love, which fulfills all the laws that the Jews had honored and sought to fulfill for centuries.
In the Eucharist, we have absolute proof of Jesus’ commitment to us. But sometimes we still need to be convinced, especially when trials chip away at our hope. We need to remind ourselves that at every Communion, we receive the completion of all Jesus did and taught. The readings can give us Jesus’ words and reveal his life to us. The homily can explain his words and open our minds to his truth. During the prayers of the liturgy, we can ask him to intercede for us. But at Communion, we receive him.
What would you say to Jesus if you knew he was closer than your next breath? Well, that’s how close he is during Communion. He knows all your hopes and dreams. He knows all your challenges, too. And he wants to have a role to play in all of them. But most of all, he wants to convince you that his love is more real than anything else in this world. So take the time after Communion to sit with him. Try to feel his presence in you, just as you can feel the love of your closest friend. Tell him what’s on your heart, but also make sure you listen to what’s on his heart. Let his presence dispel your anxieties and give you a new vision for your life. Let him bear testimony to himself—right there in your heart!
“Lord, thank you for the awesome mystery of your presence in the Eucharist. May I never forget the price you paid for me and the love you are always ready to share with me!”
Exodus 32:7-14; Psalm 106:19-23
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