Approaching and Leaving The Table

Communion is a powerful, theological, experiential, and sensual encounter in worship.  As a Disciples of Christ minister the weekly observance of communion I see as a gift to my weekly faith.  Our sanctuary has only one piece of furniture on the chancel, the table.  It is clearly the center of our worship.  It is clearly through Jesus that we know God more fully.

I think the table offers two valuable perspectives to our faith formation.  First, communion says something about our approaching the table. There is no barrier to this table.  We are invited by the host in whatever state we find ourselves.  We come as needing wholeness in our life.  We have within us the desire or quest to draw closer to God's presence to create depth and value to our lives.  The table draws a great diversity of people, yet in the midst of that diversity we discover the common cause to find peace in our life that is grounded in God through Jesus Christ.

The second perspective is what we do when we leave the table.  The table essentially begs action and a response to the grace God has given to each of us.  I believer grace ignites in us compassion to serve on Christ's behalf.  The world should become a better place because of our increased connection to God and our desire to serve on God's behalf.

The more we engage in this communion cycle of approaching and leaving the more the whole world will be shaped by Christ's love.  The table of God is the beginning and ending of all that is good and faithful.  Let it be so through our participation and response to the bread and cup Christ offers to you and me.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. Chris Wilson