communion january 25, 2004

in a few moments, we're going to partake in what many call "communion" or "the Lord's supper". but before we start, i'd like to confess something to you. that word, "partake", isn't a word i use everyday. i used that word because that's what i've heard over and over again as i grew up in the church. it's what you do, apparently. you _partake_ in the Lord's supper. i didn't use that word because i recognized a need to accentuate the weight of the tradition we're about to participate in. i chose it because of conditioning. i've been conditioned to use that word when talking about this act of remembrance.

it's sad really. had i the meaning of partake in my mind when preparing for this communion, i believe my heart would be more ready for the Spirit's intentions and hopes. i'd be able to give my God more of the 'me' he knows and longs for. a common dictionary definition gives warmth to the word for me - "to take or have a part or share; participate." indeed, communion is one of our chances to participate in the Kingdom. "to have part of the quality, nature, or character of something." communion is simultaneously a ritual of remembering the sacrificial, torturous death of our King and loving Shepherd and anticipating the coming of His Kingdom in full glory.

how dare i let my mind and heart sag apathetically and merely /inform/ you all of what we're about to do. no, i choose to *partake* this time. Father, i choose to *partake* in your Son's last supper and death with all of my heart, mind, and soul. i will remember ... and i will anticipate. [there was some inspired rambling at this point, but i don't remember what was said.]

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"As they wer eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread and asked God's blessing on it."

"Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, 'Take it and eat it, for this is my body.'"

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"And he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them and said, 'Each of you drink from it, for this is my blood, which seals the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out to forgive the sins of many.'"

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"'Mark my words -- I will not drink wine again until the day I drink it new with you in my Father's Kingdom.'"