1 Corinthians 10:14-17
14Therefore, my dear friends, flee from the worship of idols. 15I speak as to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say. 16The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? 17Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.
Some years back, our family took a hiking vacation in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. We stayed at the rustic Joe Dodge Lodge in Pinkham Notch, run by the Appalachian Mountain Club. Accommodations were basic yet wonderful; the food was hearty, and of the variety that “sticks to your ribs.” Mealtime was a highlight, not only because we worked up an appetite from all the outdoor activity, but also, because we sat at long tables with the other guests and ate “family style.” Food was served in large dishes which we passed around and shared…and as we shared food, we shared conversation, laughter, and warm friendship. All this—with people we had only just met.
When we gather around the communion table, whether kneeling to receive a wafer and small cup, or coming forward to dip a wafer into wine—I am reminded that we are all one family. Like sharing food from a common serving dish, we share the powerful, mystical presence of Christ with each other…and we become one, with each other, and with Christ. Like at Joe Dodge Lodge, we come from different places and go our different ways after we leave, but we are nevertheless united in Christ, the one bread who makes us one body in him.
Pastor Katie
For reflection:
What are some of the meals you have enjoyed, where you were reminded of your special connection with others around the table?
What are your thoughts and emotions as you approach the communion table in worship?
How can sharing communion with others break down barriers?
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