We’re not so different, we stand as one!

The Jews started arguing with one another: ‘How can this man give us his flesh to eat?’ they said. Jesus replied: ‘I tell you most solemnly, if you do not eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you will not have life in you. Anyone who does eat my flesh and drink my blood has eternal life, and I shall raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood lives in me and I live in him. As I, who am sent by the living Father, myself draw life from the Father, so whoever eats me will draw life from me. This is the bread come down from heaven; not like the bread our ancestors ate: they are dead, but anyone who eats this bread will live for ever.’ He taught this doctrine at Capernaum, in the synagogue.

Jesus message was clear, through participation in the Eucharist, eating Jesus flesh and drinking his blood, all may find peace in heaven. This caused arguments amongst the Jews and still causes conflict today. Catholics believe that during the mass service, the bread and wine actually become the body and blood of Christ. Whilst other Christians believe that it symbolically changes.

It would be easy to argue with people over our differences but wouldn’t it be better to celebrate our differences instead. No matter what a person belief is, all religions teach that we should love our neighbor. Instead of focusing on how we are different, perhaps we should start looking at how we are the same.

Watch me! In pairs, list ways that you are different from you partner, then list ways that you are the same. What benefits could your friendship have because of these differences and similarities

Almighty God, Through your Holy Spirit you created unity in the midst of diversity; We acknowledge that human diversity is an expression of your manifold love for your creation;  We confess that in our brokenness as human beings we turn diversity into a source of alienation, injustice, oppression, and wounding.  Empower us to recognize and celebrate differences as your great gift to the human family.  Enable us to be the architects of understanding, of respect and love;  Through the Lord, the ground of all unity, we pray. Amen