Whether it is a business meeting, a social gathering, a volunteer organization planning meeting or any number of similar situations – and you discover you are not invited. Our reactions vary depending on our expectations, track record on previously having been included, and a host of other instincts, hopes and fears. Our reaction oscillates between wounded pride and hopeful humility, between wondering “did I do something wrong” and “what could they possibly be thinking,” and a whole collection of other free-ranging reactions.
In today’s readings we have St. Paul’s recounting of the institution of the Eucharist and his calling to task the Corinthian community for missing the whole point of the Eucharistic gathering. We also have the gospel account of the Centurion who sent a messenger with the request that Jesus heal one of the Centurion’s servants. Upon hearing that Jesus was coming to the Centurion, he sent a messenger with the words: “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed.” (Luke 7:6-7)
Hopefully you recognize these verses as the source of our response in the Communion Rite of the Mass. After the priest prays, “Behold the Lamb of God … Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.” The people respond, “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.”
In the first reading, everyone in the Corinthian community is invited under one roof to share the Eucharistic celebration. Some treat it as another festive gathering seemingly bringing an entire meal and drink for their select friends while the poorer in the community are excluded. Paul tells them that they are showing “contempt for the Church of God and make those who have nothing feel ashamed” Hardly the attitude of one coming to a Eucharistic celebration.
But the gospel holds up a different attitude: the Centurion. There was an individual that was clearly in a position of power, privilege, and more. Someone who if he had lived in Corinth could have brought a catered meal to the Eucharistic celebration, yet he understands that he is set apart, even as he trusts in the power of Jesus. His approach to Jesus is one of humility: who am I to make such an approach? He is the one to whom the Word has been said resulting in healing. Would anyone want to be the barrier to such a one reaching out to Jesus?
St. Paul reminds us that an essential part of the Eucharist is as a source of unity for those who believe in Christ and in his Real Presence in the gift of the Eucharist. There are times when the Church authorities, other parishioners, or circumstances beyond these made a person feel not invited, unworthy and excluded. These readings need to remind us that like Centurion, we are not worthy, but that was never the point. Jesus came to the unworthy and has spoken the Word. We are all called to the Eucharistic table. Let us not come with a contempt for the Church of God or for one another.
Image credit: Saint Paul Writing His Epistles | attributed to Valentin de Boulogne | Houston Museum