Living life Eucharistically in the fact of death

September 20, 2009

Living life Eucharistically in the face of death

I read something recently in a book entitled Sacramental Life in which the author explains that the Eucharist is celebrated during the Burial liturgy so that we will be reminded “how to live life in the face of death.”

As a liturgical term, Eucharist most often is used as another word for Communion or the Lord’s Supper.  But the word itself comes from a Greek word that literally means “giving thanks.”

The term Communion connotes several layers of meaning, from the literal sharing of bread and wine in memory of Christ’s death, to the notion of being in close relationship with others, relationships that include something being communicated or shared intimately.

Thus, Anglicans, Episcopalians, and other traditions include the Eucharist in the Burial service liturgy in part to demonstrate to us that giving thanks to God and being in close communion with Him and with others is how we should live, even in the face of death. 

In fact, perhaps especially in the face of death we should give thanks and take time to be in community so that we will be able to recognize and still celebrate the larger story of our lives and of God’s redemptive work in our midst.

After reading this concept last night, I was also drawn to looking at the guest book for Daniel’s memorial service to check on one individual to see if she had attended since I could not remember.  As I read those signatures, I was struck again by the power of so many people having gathered to witness and participate in that service with us. 

Family members and friends from several parts of the country, and friends and neighbors whom we have now known for almost 30 years here in Denver – 600-700 of them gathered to mourn with us and to share in our deep loss.  Yet, most of these dear souls also participated in the Eucharist at that service, as they, with us, entered into the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection, communing with us at God’s table and showing us and each other how to continue living life in the face of death.

Sixteen months later, I continue to be moved by this experience in very complex ways.  I am taken back into my deep sadness and disorientation following Daniel’s death, and yet remembering all of those people gathered and seeing them coming forward to participate in the Eucharist somehow continues to bolster and renew my spirit in profound ways. 

Indeed, this recollection blesses my soul and reminds me of how I want to live in the face of death:  with a grateful heart and in the midst of communion with God and with my family and friends. 

Thanks be to God!