By Pastor Chris
The reading from the narrative lectionary this week is from Exodus 12:1-13. In these verses, Moses describes the Passover Feast for the first time. The Passover Feast was the last meal Jesus had with his disciples, and the symbolism of the feast is often connected with the symbolism found in our tradition of communion. Today, I want to focus on verse 11.
This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste, it is the Lord's Passover.
– Exodus 12:11 NIV
Have you ever thought about eating communion in haste? This sounds totally foreign to me. I normally try to slow down, to be thoughtful, to meditate on the meaning of the meal. I still think this approach is best. In 1 Corinthians 11 Paul encouraged us to be mindful, even cautious, in our approach to the table. However, is it possible that we could learn something from the posture prescribed in Exodus 12?
I wonder if it might be a reminder that we are to be active healers and justice makers in the world. That we are not to simply have a posture of receiving, but a posture of doing. If I am ready to go as I receive the Eucharist, then I am reminded that this is a meal to sustain me on my journey. The church gathering is a place to recharge for ministry, not to simply receive. What do you do with sustenance your receive during the church gathering? Do you hold it in, or pour it out freely?
Lord, help us to empty our cups on those around us. Fill us with your power and love so that we may be a fresh outpouring of your love upon all of your children. Help us to maintain a posture of serving and doing justice rather than one of receiving.
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