The Mystical Body of Christ

Ch 9   No. 1

Saint Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, describes the church as the Mystical body of Christ. Legionary service is based on this doctrine. Christ is the head and we are the body. Each of us is a member of the body of Christ. Each of us is unique, with a unique role to play. Jesus spoke to Saint Paul on the road to Damascus. He said, "I am Jesus whom you are persecuting." Acts 9:5 Saint Paul had been persecuting Christians. Now he finds that it is Jesus Himself that he has been persecuting, that the Christian church is Jesus. Saint Paul was knocked off his horse and struck blind. The incident made an impression on him. We should remember that when we do our work, we are acting for Jesus as part of His Mystical Body. Jesus also said that at the last judgement the King will say, "Amen I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least of my brothers of mine, you did it for me." Matthew 25:40 We have to see Jesus not only in other Christians but also in all people. This is contained in the third standing instruction; Legionary duty requires from each legionary the performance of a substantial active legionary work, in the spirit of faith, and in union with Mary, in such a fashion that those worked for and in one's fellow-members the Person of our Lord is once again seen and served by Mary, His Mother. Mary is the Mother of the Body of Christ. Our duty is to assist Her in His care.