First Reading: Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

1. While celebrating the Passover meal Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me.” What did he mean by “this”? Could “this” also mean a reenactment, i.e., lay down our lives also, as Jesus did? Who is doing that now, in the midst of our present pandemic?
                    
2. Pope Francis has said that the Eucharist is “not a prize for the perfect but a powerful medicine for the weak,” and in this homily he also wants us to know that it is not a magic rite.

We go with joy because he accompanies us, he is with us … and the Lord Jesus, even in our personal lives, accompanies us with the Sacraments. The Sacrament is not a magic rite: it is an encounter with Jesus Christ; we encounter the Lord—it is he who is beside us and accompanies us.

Morning Mass homily at Casa Santa Marta,
September 24, 2013
Sacrament of the Eucharist is Not a Magic Rite

When does it help to know that Jesus is your constant companion? “Biden or not bidden, God is present” Carl Jung (originally, Erasmus). Is God with us when we can’t physically receive the Eucharist, as in times when we stream Mass.

Gospel
John 13:1-15

1. “Do you realize what I have done for you?” Jesus asks. What is it that Jesus did for us when he washed the disciples’ feet? Do you think they realized at the time what was going on? When do you think they understood? How are the washing of the feet and the Eucharist related?

2. What are some ways you can “wash your neighbors’ feet”? Are there degrees of service to your neighbor? How high would you place “putting up with your neighbor”? How about “laying down your life”?