The First and the Last ~ A Reflection

Something Fr. Andrew said to us recently has stuck in my mind and won't let go. Here is the quote and my reflections about the words he spoke.

"Whenever I begin Mass, I pray: Lord, this is my first Mass and this is my last Mass."

Now, these words portray an absolutely beautiful way of thinking; and we parishioners are indeed fortunate to have a priest who is intent on giving God and God's people the very best he can give. For indeed, that is what our priest's words represent. They also imply an awareness that his actions at the altar are not simply some routine he is obligated or expected to perform. These words have far reaching implications for him too, that may not be apparent at first.

"Lord, this is my first Mass..."

Surely, a newly ordained priest's first Mass is one not to be forgotten. Not only does he proclaim the "Good News" to his people, but for the first time, he becomes the living instrument who calls down our God's Son to become present in ordinary pieces of bread and a cup of wine. There at the table, through his words of consecration, those simple elements are forever changed. At the same time, the priest has also experienced a change, for this precious communion with our God is not for himself alone. Indeed, the priest must share this communion with his people. They too, must be drawn into this circle of holiness. This Body and Blood of Christ must become part of their very essence and being...and to touch their very souls. Truly an inspiring and humbling thought. We can be eternally grateful to God if our priest is able to celebrate each Mass in this frame of mind.

"...Lord, this is my last Mass."

No one knows when our time here on earth will come to an end and we come to rest in God's loving arms. Will it be today... tomorrow... or many years from now? We know not the time nor the place. Remember, that for several months now, we have heard the scripture readings telling us to be alert... to be ready.

So when we hear those words about a "last Mass," we recognize that we have a priest who is mindful of his own mortality and the fragileness of our lives. This awareness surely brings to a priest a deep sense of poignancy, in the knowledge that nothing is certain beyond this moment; not for himself nor for his people. Thus, each Mass becomes like his first Mass; a precious gift from God... as well as, an offering of himself to God and to us, God's people.