Why would the infinite God want to be present with us at Mass?

The question of why an infinite God would desire to be present with humanity, particularly during the Mass, touches on deep theological and philosophical themes across various Christian denominations. Here are several perspectives on this:

1. Love and Relationship:
   • Many theologians argue that God's essence includes love, and love inherently desires closeness and relationship. By being present at Mass, God expresses this love in a tangible way, fostering a personal relationship with each believer. The Mass, in Christian theology, is seen as a communal celebration of this love, where God's presence is not just symbolic but real, offering grace and communion.
2. Incarnation Continuation:
   • The doctrine of the Incarnation—where God became man in Jesus Christ—suggests that God's desire to be with humanity is so profound that He chose to live among us. The Mass can be seen as a continuation of this Incarnation; the Eucharist, in particular, is believed by Catholics to be the real presence of Christ, thus continuing this divine-human communion.
3. Sanctification and Transformation:
   • God's presence at Mass is thought to be sanctifying, helping believers to become more like Christ. Through the liturgy, teachings, and especially through the Eucharist, God offers a means for spiritual growth and transformation. This presence is seen as an invitation to holiness and a reminder of God's ongoing work in the world.
4. Mystery and Covenant:
   • The Mass is often described in terms of covenant, echoing the Old Testament where God made covenants with His people. The New Covenant in Christianity, sealed by Christ's sacrifice, is celebrated in the Mass. God's presence here reaffirms this covenant, making it not just a historical event but a living reality where God renews His promises.
5. Sacramental Reality:
   • For those who hold to sacramental theology, the Mass represents a moment where the infinite intersects with the finite, where the spiritual becomes concretely accessible. This sacramental view sees God's presence as not just symbolic but actual through the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist.
6. Community and Unity:
   • The Mass is also about the gathering of the community. God's presence underscores the unity of the Church, both on earth and in heaven, where believers are joined with Christ and each other. This communal aspect reflects God's desire for unity and peace among humanity, which He participates in through His presence.
7. Divine Pedagogy:
   • Some see God's presence at Mass as part of His ongoing teaching or "divine pedagogy." Here, God educates, comforts, and guides His people through liturgical rites, scripture, and the Eucharist, adapting His infinite nature to human understanding and need.

These perspectives collectively suggest that God's presence at Mass is not just about divine proximity but about engaging in the human condition, fostering love, community, spiritual growth, and covenantal relationship. Each of these points reflects different aspects of how Christian theology interprets God's nature and His relationship with humanity.