32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Wednesday, November 15, 2006

Scripture: Titus 3:1-7, Psalm 23, Luke 17:11-19.

Today's readings, especially the Gospel, made me think and meditate upon the gift of the Eucharist. Certainly, Psalm 23-- America's favorite--has images that are compatible with the Eucharist. The words in English for the Gospel passage led me to focus on the Eucharist. The text has only one of the ten lepers coming back and giving thanks to Jesus for having cured him. I checked the original Greek and realized that it was referring directly to the glory that is given to God by thanking God for the cure or graces which one receives. The word used is DOXAN in the objective or accusative, so, I realized that only the way the English translated it led me to consider the gift of Communion or Eucharist. Oh, happy fault!

Jesus puts the phrase in the form of a question, " Was there no one to return and give thanks (doxan) to God except this foreigner?" During the Mass we do give thanks to God and the whole sacramental action is called the Eucharist. Personally, I am fortunate enough to be able to participate each day in the Eucharist. Many of you do not have such an advantage because of work, family, or even because there is no nearby church and possibly if there is, the Eucharist may not be offered each day.

In St. Luke the theme of prayer is one of the key themes. I joined this to his theme of the Eucharist which is strong both in the Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles usually through the expression "the breaking of the bread." Luke does use the word "EUCHARISTEIN" more than the other evangelists, but not as frequently as Paul. It is often translated as giving thanks (to the Lord). My reflection led me to join prayer to the Eucharist as sacrament. My prayer will continue throughout the day in pondering over this connection. I follow the good example of the Samaritan and give thanks to God for the gift of Jesus Himself, whole and entire, under the elements of bread and wine. "Let us give thanks to the Lord, for his mercies endure forever!" Amen.