*Note: Check out our Holy Week Playlist on Spotify (linked here) as you read and reflect on the following. Today’s songs are O Come to the Altar, Scandal of Grace, and Come As You Are.*
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
At the church I grew up in, 5th grade was the year that most students participated in their first communion. Leading up to this event, there were several classes that I went to with my peers and our parents to teach us about this process and its significance. A few weeks later I watched as my friends took their first communion at a special church service while I remained a spectator in the pews. My parents thought I was too young and that the process was too rushed. They wanted my first communion to be my choice, and that I could let them know when I was ready. How long was I supposed to wait? How would I know when I was ready?
I sat with these questions for quite some time, and it wasn’t until my confirmation in 9th grade that I told my parents I was ready. It was already a time that I was proclaiming my testimony to the church and taking ownership over my faith. What a more fitting opportunity to celebrate than by partaking in the Lord’s supper! It ended up being a really special moment, as my parents surprised me by signing up to serve communion that Sunday.
Before communion is served, a pastor will often read from 1 Corinthians, retelling the events of Maundy Thursday. Every time we participate in communion we practice the ancient tradition of entering a covenant and we are reminded that Jesus died on the cross for each and every one of our sins. Beyond this, we share a meal together as friends. This is something that Agape and Ecclesia does so well. When we are able to gather in person, the way in which we practice communion so perfectly captures the idea of community!
Whether or not your first communion experience was as memorable as mine, I challenge you to think carefully about the words of institution the next time you hear them. Jesus spoke these words to his followers and friends, knowing full well that one of them would betray him that same evening and another would deny him three times. Did Jesus wait for the right moment? That’s debatable. Were the disciples ready for this experience? Probably not, and that’s okay. But what Jesus did do was ensure that his heart and mind were in the right place as he shared this final meal.
Reflection Questions:
What do you currently do to prepare yourself for communion? What does it look like to prepare your heart and mind before an important and symbolic meal?
In addition to communion, where in your life is Jesus calling you to prepare your heart and mind?
Written by Emily Petersen