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When Jesus announced that we are to eat his body and drink his blood to attain salvation, he appalled his hearers. Jewish people were, and are, forbidden to consume blood. And his disciples found it a difficult teaching to accept. We have since come to understand that Christ was offering his entire self to us by being fully present in the Eucharist.
This is a matter of faith, not logical or scientific fact, that can only be grasped through the wisdom of faith. Wisdom invites us to a mature faith that is not dependent on earthly knowledge, but a deep understanding that we encounter Christ each time at Mass. When we receive Jesus, we become tabernacles bringing Jesus to the world. Through our encounter with the mystery of Christ’s eucharistic presence, we become that very presence for all we encounter.
We do this by witnessing to our awe and wonder before God, speaking and doing no evil, dedicating ourselves to good works, and pursuing peace in our lives. We live as wise people who offer thanksgiving for all we have been given. We are particularly thankful that Jesus offered his entire self to us in his body and blood. Likewise, we Christ-bearers offer our whole selves to others, and to God’s wise plan for justice and peace in our world. Therein lies our salvation.