April 4th

One Way

The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 1 Corinthians 10:16

Have you ever been confused by Communion? We eat some flat bread-a cracker, or a wafer, or whatever it is-and then we drink some juice. Why? What does it really mean? It is important for us to answer these questions, for communion is one of the most im-

portant things Jesus left to us before He returned to Heaven. As we look at eight key elements to what communion represents, all this will become clear to you.

First, communion is clarifying. It is our community identity, taking precedence over our background, socioeconomic status, wealth, color, gender, or anything else that might define us. Second, communion is purifying, so that we would no longer live for the things of the world, but for Christ and Christ alone.

Third, communion is sacrificing. It reminds us of all that Jesus sacrificed and provokes us to question what we are sacrificing for Him.

Fourth, communion is saying, Thanks. It is being thankful for all that God has done for us, and being thankful all the time for all things, whether we are in the church building or away from it.

Fifth, communion is examining our motives, actions, behaviors, and beliefs. We need to be sure that we're living for Christ before we partake of communion and repent of any ways in which we are falling short.

Sixth, communion is remembering all the horror that Jesus Christ endured in the beatings, the cross, the grave, and the sin, sickness, and shame that He took from us upon Himself. It is remembering the freedom and new life that He bought for us and the defeat He dealt to Satan on that day.

Seventh, communion is proclaiming the Lord's death until He comes again. This is us crying out to the world that there is hope, and His name is Jesus Christ.

Eighth, communion is anticipating what is to come and what is still to take place. Communion now is only a precursor to when we will sit down with the Lord Himself and partake of this meal together.

By now you can see why communion is so important, but right now you need to know that it is more than just a powerless ceremony. It is actually the picture of a reality that each of us should live. If you believe these eight points, are you living them?

Prayer Lord Jesus,

Thank You for all that You did for me! I believe and receive everything that communion represents. Now please help me to live out my beliefs and proclaim the hope You bring until the day You return!

Amen