Corpus Christi B
June 2006
It happens, more and more often, that at funerals people want some particular piece of music played or some particular piece of poetry read in remembrance of their departed relative or friend. This is so because they associate the deceased with it and it brings back many good memories.
The big thing that the followers of Jesus associated with him was celebration. Sitting around the table with his followers and friends as they enjoyed their food and drink in good company.
If you read the Gospels and note the number of times that Jesus is found eating with friends and followers or on his way to a meal or just after having a meal you will be absolutely astounded. (at table 19, feast 18, supper 4, a meal 7, eating 19, eating and drinking 9, banquet 5, dinner 3, lunch 1, breakfast 1 (67)). This will give you a whole new insight into the character and spirituality of Jesus; Jesus was good company, people felt at ease with him. He enjoyed food, wine and company. Jesus absolutely loved eating and drinking with his followers and friends. The more the merrier.
No wonder his enemies said `Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.'
And again “John's disciples are always fasting and saying prayers, and the disciples of the Pharisees, too, but yours go on eating and drinking.” This is an aspect of Jesus, which Christian Churches have overlooked for many, many years. But not the early church, the followers of Jesus who had known him.
When they came to writing down what they remembered most about Jesus, his liking for parties, feasts, food and company took pride of place. Also much of his teaching was delivered during a meal or was contained in a parable or story about a feast. With all this in mind it is not surprising that when it came to giving his followers the definitive way of remembering him (celebrating his life, death and resurrection) he did it in the context of a meal and it took the form of eating and drinking in company. This is the Mass. This is the Eucharist.
This is how Jesus wants to be remembered.
When you come to Mass you are coming to a party with your friends; so leave the long face at home.