The Communion Table

Sermon Reflections from The Communion Table | Sara Wade | November 19, 2023

On Sunday, Sara Wade from Hands and Feet east bay, shared a message from 1 Corinthians 11 about the communion table and how it represents Embracing All as Jesus Did.  In the Gospel narratives, one of the remarkable qualities of Jesus was His inclusive nature, particularly evident in His interactions with those considered outcasts or marginalized by society. This inclusivity extended to His invitations to share meals, reflecting a profound message of love, acceptance, and grace. The communion table, as a symbol of fellowship and remembrance, mirrors this open-hearted invitation extended by Jesus during His earthly ministry.

Embracing the Outcasts
Throughout His life, Jesus consistently broke societal norms by reaching out to those labeled as outcasts—tax collectors, sinners, the sick, the broken, the lost and the marginalized. He dined with them, offering them not just physical food but acceptance and love that transcended social barriers...  Can you imagine opening your house or eating with strangers you just met?  Well, that's exactly what Jesus did.   

The Symbolism of Meals in Jesus' Ministry
The significance of meals in Jesus' ministry can’t be overstated. His actions challenged the prevailing cultural norms, emphasizing inclusivity and the importance of fellowship. Sharing a meal with someone, in that context, signified deep acceptance and belonging...  What would it be like to move to another country, not speak the same language, not know the cultural norms, and have no family or friends around? 

The Communion Table: Reflecting Christ's Inclusivity
When instituting the Last Supper, Jesus extended an invitation to His disciples, setting a precedent for the communal act of remembrance through bread and wine. This act wasn’t exclusive; it was a gesture of inclusivity, representing the sacrificial love He embodied...  Whom might God be asking you to invite to your dinner table? 

Open to All: Breaking Barriers
The essence of the communion table lies in its openness. Just as Jesus welcomed all to dine with Him, the communion table is a symbol of unreserved acceptance. It's a place where all are invited—regardless of background, social status, race, gender, sins, or past mistakes... Whom do you limit your table to?

Relevance Today
In contemporary times, the message of an inclusive communion table remains vital. The table symbolizes unity, breaking barriers that divide us. It stands as a reminder of Christ's all-encompassing love and the call for His followers to extend that love to everyone, without exception...  What is Jesus saying to you? 

Conclusion
The communion table isn’t a place for exclusivity or judgment; it’s a sacred space embodying the all-embracing love of Christ. Just as Jesus welcomed and dined with the outcasts, the communion table invites all, irrespective of their journey or background. It’s a profound reminder of the radical inclusivity found in Christ’s ministry—a call for us to extend that same love and acceptance to everyone, making the table a symbol of unity, grace, mercy and love.

This thanksgiving maybe we save a place for one more at our table.  Maybe God is asking us to open our hearts and doors to an unexpected guest.  Damon Hopkins shared a beautiful prayer on Sunday.  He said, "Lord...Just give me 1 more!" "Just 1 More!" May our prayer be for 1 more this Thanksgiving.  

Blessings,
Pastor Alex

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