Dear Parishioners and Friends,Back in seminary, my evangelical pastor was concerned about people who approach Holy Communion in an individualistic way. But he was glad that many of his parishioners took Scriptural directions about the Eucharist seriously. For example, he said they won’t receive if they are unreconciled with a brother or sister in Christ. Here are passages he had in mind:
- If any one says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar (1 Jn. 4:20).
- Leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. (Mt. 5:24).
He had a good point, as a reverent approach to the Eucharist must strengthen our relationships with others. This will be true if we approach the Holy Mysteries by mercy alone. From ancient preparatory prayers for Holy Communion:How can I who am unworthy dare to come to the communion of Your Holy Things? For even if I should dare to approach You with those who are worthy, my garment betrays me, for it is not a festal robe, and I shall cause the condemnation of my sinful soul. Cleanse, O Lord, the pollution from my soul, and save me as the Lover of men.If we are truly aware of our need for mercy, then we will extend that mercy to those who grieve us. And so we have this additional prayer: If thou desirest, O man, to eat the Body of the Master, approach with fear, lest thou be burnt; for It is fire. And when thou drinkest the Divine Blood unto communion, first be reconciled to them that have grieved thee, then dare to eat the Mystical Food.
I came across a Catholic Church that had this helpful tradition: when arriving for liturgy, they’re instructed to light a candle in prayer for those who grieve them. Indeed, high reverence for the Eucharist has both a vertical aspect toward God and a horizontal aspect toward our brothers. If we keep this in mind, then we will live with integrity and be more transformed by Sacramental grace.
In Christ,
Fr. Scharbach
And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against any one; so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” Mk 11:25.
[From earlier in the series: Your game face on, the night before, at home before Mass, ardent prayers, sacramental travel, and eyes wide open.]