Today’s readings show us the last days of Christ’s life and the first steps in the development of the Church that He founded. When a beloved person leaves this world, we stay with her until the very last. We listen to what she says and try to impress in our minds her advice. Christ’s mission is coming to an end. There is little time left to be with His disciples. He has washed their feet and after that, He gives them some instructions that St. John the Evangelist gathers in his gospel.

The Eucharist we celebrate reminds us of and re-presents Christ’s death for the salvation of all. As we partake of It, may we receive the courage and strength we need to live united to Christ and to proclaim His teachings to all around us.