Communion with the Father

"Offer a blessing rather than a curse."  I have used that line several times, in regards to gossip or even sarcasm.  I have to remind myself of this directive when I feel sort of nasty or mean spirited.  In the Gospel today the people around Jesus begin to murmur at what is being discussed.  Anyone who has ever been in a parish knows what this is like.  Of course the topic moves from the "Bread of Life," to "We know your parents."

It is interesting that the word we use for the Eucharist, 'Communion,' also means being together, and having a commonality.  To be sure a way that we reach that communion is through conversation and words which build up, as well as draw peoples together.  From the very beginning of scripture we can recognize the life giving quality of the Father's Word.  And the Word made flesh lives among us to bring us to the newness of life. Right before receiving communion at Mass we pray that Jesus 'only say the word and we will be healed.'

In our culture today we do not always use good and life-giving words, or strive for communion with each other.  We are quick to verbally assail each other.  But just as Jesus' words give life, and he who is the Word of God, becomes bread of Life, our challenge is to use good words and to speak the truth.  To be in communion with God and others we have to use a language of 'holy' and life-giving words.  Even St. Paul speaks about the importance of admonishing one another with charity.

When I was in high school my office had an entrance into the main hallway, which meant I could hear many of the conversations of the students.  The back-stabbing, nastiness, and vulgarity, was distressing.  I would often call to mind that these young people received the Eucharist with those same mouths.  Perhaps this is way St. Paul was so adamant about acting like a Eucharistic people outside of the place of prayer and worship.  Our words should imitate the one we receive in building up each others character, offering comfort, and speaking the truth.

We have to be careful to stay away from murmuring crowds and join those whose nature is life giving - like the Eucharist we have received.  That way we know we are close to the Father in heaven.