Because
the Saviour instituted the Sacrament following the Last Supper, the early
members of the Church maintained a practice of having a meal together followed
by the Sacrament. Paul advised the Corinthians against this practice, however,
as the meals were sometimes consumed before all saints arrived, resulting in
discord among them (1 Corinthians 11:17-22). This was contrary to the culture
of the Near East where dining together was an expression of unity, peace and
friendship. It was during a meal together that any problems and disagreements
were resolved and all parties were reconciled.
Paul referred to the sacrament as ‘communion’ not just between
individuals and Christ but also between fellow saints (1 Corinthians 10:17). Since
we collectively, by baptism, become the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:13),
and since the sacrament is a renewal of our baptismal covenants, each time we
partake of the sacrament, we affirm our communion with one another and with the
Saviour, and thus become one. We partake together á meal’ of unity, peace and
friendship. So united, we enjoy greater
communion with Him who has brought us together by virtue of His sacrifice. (See
the New Testament Institute Manual for above scripture references and their
explanations)
Until
now, I have always considered the Sacrament a very individual and personal
ordinance between me and the Lord. The greatest spiritual connection I have
felt during the sacrament ordinance was during the pandemic lockdowns when I
was fortunate enough to sit at my daughter’s kitchen table and partake of the
sacrament with her, her husband and my grandchildren. Each time, my emotions
would surge to the point of tears. I didn’t understand it at the time but now
when I reflect on it, I am certain it is the unity I felt with those I love
during my most sacred moment when I felt united in spirit with Christ. This is
His power….to unite us through His sacrifice with a bond that can never be
broken. This is what it means to be together forever. I will think about that
next time I see a deacon approaching me with bread and water and I am certain I
will weep…..
To
my lips I press the cup
With
bitter taste I drink it up;
In
remembrance of blood spilt
My
sins increase the bitter still.
The
sorrow rends my weeping heart
The
contrite spirit hope imparts.
You
reach for me with tender touch:
Weep
not, I wept for you so much!
The
price was paid, your souls were won
All
our hearts now beat as one.
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