MARK 14:22-26
THE LORD’S SUPPER
Text – Mark 14:22–26
22 While they were eating, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, “Take it; this is my body.”
23 Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it.
24 He said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many.
25 Amen, I say to you, I shall not drink again the fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”
26 Then, after singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Historical and Jewish Context
Jesus institutes the Eucharist within the framework of the Jewish Passover meal. The Passover commemorated Israel’s deliverance from Egypt through the sacrifice of the lamb and the blood that marked their covenant with God (Exodus 12). During the meal, the host would bless and break unleavened bread, and four ritual cups of wine would be shared, each recalling aspects of God’s saving acts. Jesus transforms these ancient symbols by identifying Himself as the true Paschal Lamb. His words, “This is my body” and “This is my blood of the covenant,” introduce a new covenant sealed not with the blood of animals, but with His own life, freely given for the salvation of all. This act marks the transition from the old Passover to the new and eternal covenant between God and humanity.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage is the foundation of the Holy Eucharist, the central mystery of Catholic faith. In these words and gestures, Jesus offers Himself sacramentally under the appearances of bread and wine. The Church teaches that through transubstantiation, the substance of bread and wine becomes the true Body and Blood of Christ, though the appearances remain (CCC 1376). The phrase “for many” reflects the universal saving will of God—Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient for all but effective for those who accept it in faith. The Eucharist unites the sacrifice of Calvary and the Last Supper, making present in every Mass the one sacrifice of Christ. His promise not to drink “until the kingdom of God” points toward the heavenly banquet, where communion with God will be complete.
Parallels in Scripture
Matthew 26:26–29 – Parallel account emphasizing the covenantal meaning of the cup.
Luke 22:19–20 – Includes the command, “Do this in memory of me.”
John 6:51–58 – Jesus’ discourse on the Bread of Life explaining the Eucharistic mystery.
Exodus 24:8 – Moses seals the old covenant with blood, prefiguring Christ’s new covenant.
1 Corinthians 11:23–26 – St. Paul recounts the institution of the Eucharist, affirming its sacred tradition in the early Church.
Key Terms
Body and Blood – The real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, offered as sacrifice and received as communion.
Covenant – A binding relationship between God and His people, now perfected through Christ’s redemptive sacrifice.
Fruit of the Vine – Symbol of joy and divine blessing, pointing to the heavenly feast of eternal life.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage forms the core of every Holy Mass, particularly emphasized on Holy Thursday, the Feast of Corpus Christi, and during every Eucharistic celebration. Each Mass re-presents—not repeats—the sacrifice of Calvary, uniting heaven and earth. The hymn sung at the end of the meal recalls the Psalms traditionally chanted at Passover, leading Jesus and His disciples toward Gethsemane, where His offering would soon be fulfilled. The Eucharist is thus both thanksgiving and anticipation of eternal communion with God.
Conclusion
At the Last Supper, Jesus gives Himself entirely to His disciples and to all humanity. His body and blood become the new Passover, liberating believers from sin and death. Through this sacred gift, He remains with His Church until the end of time. The Eucharist is not merely remembrance—it is participation in the mystery of redemption and union with Christ, who is both priest and victim.
Reflection
In receiving the Eucharist, we encounter the living Christ who nourishes, forgives, and transforms us. Like the apostles, we are invited to share not only in His meal but in His mission. Each communion strengthens our bond with God and one another, preparing us for the eternal banquet in His kingdom.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of Your Body and Blood, the source of life and salvation. Deepen our reverence for the Eucharist, that we may approach Your altar with pure hearts and grateful love. Make us living tabernacles of Your presence and witnesses of Your mercy to the world. Amen.