6) Mutuality
Liturgy
Divisiveness splinters
We learn to feel threatened
Tension and fear become anger and hatred
We misinterpret each other
Misunderstand each other
Miss and abandon each other
Christ invites us to God’s table
Again and again
Giving body and blood
Poured out and pouring out
reminding us
We belong to each other
A meal together
Dismantles perceptions and prejudice
Food facilitates our fellowship
Feeds mutuality and equality
This table nurtures unity.
Questions
“In her book ‘Eating Together’, Alice Julier argues that dining together can radically shift people’s perspectives: It reduces people’s perceptions of inequality, and diners tend to view those of different races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds as more equal than they would in other social scenarios.” (Cody C. Delistraty, “The Importance of Eating Together, The Atlantic, online article, 2014). Do you agree? Share about your experience.
The body can be offered in solidarity and justice. Numerous models can be found in Christian history. Jesus, Archbishop Oscar Romero, and others have offered sweat, tears, and even blood for a more compassionate, safe, and healthy society. Our blood reminds us we all belong to one human family. What does it mean for our bodies to be given for others -- in a way that still honors the rights and dignity of all bodies?
What are some divisions in our world, culture, or local community that are especially dear or painful to you? Can you imagine bringing together folks from across that divide for a meal? What do you imagine?
