Day 193: Communion Forever in Heaven

There is no surer pledge or dearer sign of this great hope in the new heavens and new earth "in which righteousness dwells," than the Eucharist. Every time this mystery is celebrated, "the work of our redemption is carried on" and we "break the one bread that provides the medicine of immortality, the antidote for death, and the food that makes us live forever in Jesus Christ." CCC 1405

Today's reading is short, with the Catechism speaking about the transforming power of the Eucharist in preparing us for the heavenly banquet with Christ that awaits those of us who "have fought the good fight, ...finished the race, [and] have kept the faith" (2 Tim 4:7-8). The Catechism Compendium gives a summary of this teaching:

The Eucharist is a pledge of future glory because it fills us with every grace and heavenly blessing. It fortifies us for our pilgrimage in this life and makes us long for eternal life. It unites us already to Christ seated at the right hand of the Father, to the Church in heaven and to the Blessed Virgin and all the saints.

In the Eucharist, we “break the one bread that provides the medicine of immortality, the antidote for death and the food that makes us live forever in Jesus Christ.” (Saint Ignatius of Antioch) (#294)

I also like some of the commentary from the Catechism Companion, Vol II on this:

The Eucharist is meant to transform us, preparing us for God's heavenly presence and kingdom... When receiving Holy Communion, we are receiving the very heart of God. Our invitation is to give our hearts to Jesus at every Mass. Through the Eucharist, heaven can begin now, as time and eternity intersect at the altar. The Mass is where heaven and earth unite, allowing us to experience the joy and love of God that will continue for all eternity. (p. 150)

The central Adoration of the Mystic Lamb panel. 

The famous Ghent Altarpiece, shown here, reminds us that every Mass is a foretaste of heaven (see CCC 1402). (p. 151)