In today’s Gospel, we hear John the Baptist acknowledge that Jesus is the Messiah and declare to the world that he is the Christ, with the
words, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29b) Just before we receive Holy Communion at Mass, the priest uses these same words as he holds the consecrated Host and Precious Blood before us.

Then he quotes from the Book of Revelation, saying: “Blessed are those called to the Supper of the Lamb.” (Revelation 19:9). Our
celebration of the Eucharistic mystery is a participation in the Heavenly Banquet which we will experience fully at the end of time.

As today’s Prayer over the offerings declares: “whenever the memorial of this sacrifice is celebrated the work of our redemption is accomplished.” Acknowledging our unworthiness before such a mystery, we cry out with the words of the centurion: “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.” (Matthew 8:5-13)

For, like the centurion who went to Jesus asking that his servant be healed, we know our brokenness; and, like the centurion, we trust that the power of Christ’s mercy is greater than our weaknesses. Once the centurion had professed his faith in Jesus’ power to heal, the Lord responded to him: “You may go; as you have believed, let it be done for you.” (Matthew 8:13)

Thus having acknowledged the forgiving and healing power of Christ, we humbly approach the table of the children of God. God’s grace is greater than our brokenness. God’s grace will not fail. God’s grace will lead us to the heavenly banquet-the Supper of the Lamb.