Communion

I taught the children in our congregation about communion this year. Admittedly, I left this verse out of my teaching, it’s a bit gruesome. As Lutherans, we don’t believe that the bread and wine “transform” into Jesus’ body and blood, rather Jesus is fully present in both the bread and wine.

I enjoy celebrating Holy Communion each week, sharing a meal with friends and Christians everywhere. Personally, it’s a time of reflection, where I feel Christ with me, giving me a hug like a relative I haven’t seen in a while.

Just as Jesus meets us at the foot of the cross, to be with us in our joy, pain and sorrow, in Holy Communion Jesus meets us with hope and promise: “The body of Christ given for you. The blood of Christ shed for you.” Jesus is with us in this moment, as the words “for you” are spoken. Jesus is with us to celebrate, to ease worry, provide hope and share love.

I leave Holy Communion nourished in body and spirit, and know that Christ is with me, no matter what the week ahead holds.

God of love, we thank you for your gift of Jesus in our lives, for your grace and mercy. We know that you are with us each and every day. Amen. — GB