Expert: Charlie B - 11/11/2009

Question
Hello,I read your answers to some questions.Congratulation!!
I'm Maronite, I believe in Christ without wondering but this time I have some curiosity.I want to  know if there's anything in the bible or other that prove that we actually receive the Christ's body and blood and not just a symbol of Him.
Thank You.


Answer
Izabelle,
Thanks for your question... all the way from Brazil.  Off-topic by the way, congratulations on the Summer Olympics win.

Yes, here's specific verses for you to consider in the reality that we actually recieve his Body and Blood, and not just a symbol of Him:

John 6:53-56...truly, truly I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.

Matthew 26:26-28...take, eat; this is my body.

Mark 14:22-24...Take, this is my body. And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them and they all drank of it. This is my blood of the Convenant.

Izabelle, note that Mark didn't say, "This is a semblance of His body..." or "this is a symbol of His Blood."   Sacred Scripture is quite literal, not figurative ... and yet it IS a MYSTERY, yes?  Faith is a gift, one that doesn't try to understand all the mysteries.

In addition, you might consider these additional, helpful explanations:
- http://www.catholicapologetics.org/ap060500.htm

- http://www.catholicbooks.net/?p=221

- http://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p2s2c1a3.htm

Imagine for a moment this scenario:  by not believing, what are you denying yourself?  Let's say you arrive to Gates of Heaven.  Jesus asks you, "If you are Catholic, why did you not believe in my presence in the Eucharist?  Why didn't your partake in my love & loving sacrifice, offered to you daily for the taking?"  Hummm....

What are you losing by believing in the real presence?  
Answer (for myself): I can't think of anything that I'm losing.  
I pray for you to receive the grace of Faith.
God bless,
Charlie

PS -- if you liked this answer, then you'll love these inspiring Catholic audios at
http://www.lighthousecatholicmedia.org/store/refer/1528
There's several audio CDs and MP3 downloads on this topic!  :-)