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Have you caught anything to eat?
Remembrance is critical in life. In 1987 several were captured as hostages by Shiite Muslim terrorists in Beirut. One of them was Fr. Lawrence Jenko who saved bit of bread and water from his meager ration. When guards left the men alone for a few minutes, Fr. Jenko consecrated the bread and water and offered communion to his fellow captives, one of them was a Presbyterian minister, Benjamin Weir. They described later that this was one of the most profound moments of intimacy with Jesus Christ their risen Savior. And this intimacy enabled them to endure horrifying months of captivity and eventually to emerge with their faith deepened and strengthened.
In celebrating Eucharist, we remember who we are and what God has done for us. In the Eucharist, Jesus’ promise to be with us is fulfilled. We are never left alone. Jesus always accompanies us in our life’s journey. In partaking in the body and blood of Christ, we experience union with Christ and with one another, while receiving his mercy and forgiveness. That is why this is also a thanksgiving sacrifice. Without this life-giving memory or commemoration, we are lost.
Following the instructions of the risen Lord, the disciples cast the net and caught 153 fish. This is the total number of species of fish known back then in the world, which means the disciples are to bring in all the people around the world with the new life of the risen Christ.
The gospel story continues: “Jesus said to them, ‘Come, have breakfast.’ And… Jesus took the bread and gave it to them, and in like manner the fish.” There is an unquestionable Eucharistic tone of the story. Jesus eats in front of them. So, they become the eyewitnesses of his resurrection. From now on, Jesus’ presence to them will be at such fellowship meals where they remember his words and break bread as Jesus had taught them.
Many of our children will receive their First Communion in this month. They will experience their consummate intimacy and union with Christ for the first time. Through this union, they will Christ’s self-giving love, celebrate their intimate friendship with the Lord, and have the strength to endure challenges and difficulties in life.
Are you also asking: “Is there anything to eat?” The answer is yes and yes. Just come and enjoy the lavish feast of God’s mercy and new life. Come to our daily and Sunday Masses. Invite others to the feast of love and life.
Yours truly in Christ,
Fr. Paul D. Lee