The Letter to the Hebrews this weekend speaks of the priesthood coming from the line of Melchizedek. Melchizedek ranked higher than Abraham, and his ancestry was not known. Because of this truth, the priesthood of Melchizedek was considered to be “forever.”
From this line comes Christ, whose priesthood is far superior to all others. Jesus’ priesthood is truly eternal and it is God the Father who appoints His Son, the one and true eternal PRIEST. Both on earth and in Heaven, Jesus reigns supreme as the priest who offers the sacrifice and the Victim who is offered.
At every Mass, we are united to those who offer sacrifice in Heaven. Earth and Heaven meet in a unique, sacred and intimate celebration during the Sacrifice of the Mass in every Catholic Church throughout this world. As the “Holy Holy Holy” is recited or sung, we can picture ourselves at the foot of the throne of God with His only begotten Son by His side. The incense is offered as our prayers rise up.
As the words of consecration: This is my Body… This is my Blood … are uttered from the words of the Priest here on earth, the very same proclamation is made in Heaven. How incredible a mystery and how incredible a gift! Do we dare to understand the value of one Mass, the value of one offering of the Eucharist as the gift of Jesus’ Sacrifice of self on Calvary? Would that we could realize where we are at each Mass, right before the throne of the God the Father, praising Him for the offering of His Son!
Sister Diane Marie Corrado, CSFN
