For the next few weeks, we’ll take a look at “building blocks” for soul growth. This week’s theme: the Building Block of Worship.
Today’s scripture: Luke 22:7-8, 13-20 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Mark Shoup):
All my life I have been a “worry warrior.” I worry about things that haven’t yet happened, and I worry about things that have already happened that I wish had turned out differently. I will be the first to admit that being a worry warrior is a waste of energy. All it does is put money in the pocket of conversational therapists and the makers of anti-anxiety medicines.
But the worst thing that worrying does is keep you from enjoying the present.
Jesus seemed to be aware of this, as he often showed considerable lack of concern for what was up ahead, choosing instead to focus on what was going on right then. Probably the ultimate example of this is His participation in the last supper with his disciples. He knew what was coming, but His focus was on the time He was spending with them. While I would have been paralyzed with worry, Jesus choose instead to focus on His relationships, enjoying fellowship one last time.
In light of Christ’s attitude, I think for us to get the most out of communion, we have to be fully focused on the moment. This means that if you are viewing the Lord’s meal as just another item to check off your weekly list of religious chores, you probably aren’t getting much out of it and are probably wasting your time.
Our church used to have communion after the evening service as part of a monthly pot luck meal. This was before I was attending, so I regret I was never able to experience this. But it seems to me a perfect way to celebrate communion while being fully immersed in the moment, the way Jesus wanted it to be. While it might seem sacrilegious to some to use fruit punch for the “cup,” I think the advantage of bringing Christ right into the middle of real fellowship far outweighs any perceived dogmatic errors.
Thought for the day: When I next partake of the Communion meal, how can I be more in the moment? How can I keep my thoughts focused on Christ?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.