Tabenacle question/Todays Reading

[McUait]

Hello to all,
I hope this is an okay forum to ask this question. I have a question based on part of todays scripture reading, Paul states “The God who made the world and all that is in it, the Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in sanctuaries made by human hands,
nor is he served by human hands because he needs anything.
Rather it is he who gives to everyone life and breath and everything.”

How does one explain (regardless of context at that time) the true living presence of Christ in the Eucharist kept in the Tabernacle and the Priest (human hands) attending it? I have been told by non Catholic friends, " you cant keep God in a box" referring to the Tabernacle. My only answer is God dwells where he wishes but would like a better educated response to offer. Thank you taking time to read and respond.

Grace and Peace,

McUait

 

[pianistclare]

Spiritually, the Ark was the manifestation of God’s physical presence on earth (the shekhina) for the Hebrews.
For us Catholics,the Tabernacle is a place of repose for the consecrated hosts (Christ). The Tabernacle serves a beautiful purpose. The Tabernacle and Christ within, gives us a place to come and simply BE with God. When Adoration is unavailable, one can always find the faithful kneeling before the Tabernacle, having an intimate conversation with the Lord. These things help us.
It would be silly to think that Catholics literally “capture Jesus” and keep Him hostage in the Tabernacles around the world.
In the Mass Christ becomes present, as you know and believe. Ask them what they would do with the hosts that must be taken to the home bound or hospitals later in the week? Would we need to “whip up another batch” of Jesus?
I’m sorry if this sounds condescending or flippant. That’s not my intention. But honestly, when people who do not believe or accept Catholic theology, or the Last Supper narrative, frankly, to be true, there’s not a lot you can do to convince them. They are bashing your faith practices as nonsensical.
It’s funny how some folks who want to take Bible verses literally, cannot seem to grasp the Bread of Life narrative.

What St. Paul tells us is true and speaks more to those who favor clericalism, or are over-concerned with rules, and not being the hands and feet of Christ. He’s talking about the reality of the Risen Christ. In our lives as well as in the Heavens.
Alleluia!
God bless you.

 

[McUait]

Pianistclare, Thank you so much for your comments and points. This will definitely help me to explain in a better way to my friends. The “whip up another batch” of Jesus" will definitely hit home with them. I know they will chuckle at that but then the wheels will start turning! Thanks again for taking time to answer me.

Peace,

McUait

 

[pianistclare]

Pianistclare, Thank you so much for your comments and points. This will definitely help me to explain in a better way to my friends. The “whip up another batch” of Jesus" will definitely hit home with them. I know they will chuckle at that but then the wheels will start turning! Thanks again for taking time to answer me.

Peace,

McUait

Well, it’s about what we believe Jesus promised us and what He said to us.
We believe that He wasn’t speaking in riddles here.
A very hearty welcome to the forums.
See you around!