14-16 When it was time, he sat down, all the apostles with him, and said, “You’ve no idea how much I have looked forward to eating this Passover meal with you before I enter my time of suffering. It’s the last one I’ll eat until we all eat it together in the kingdom of God.”
17-18 Taking the cup, he blessed it, then said, “Take this and pass it among you. As for me, I’ll not drink wine again until the kingdom of God arrives.”
19 Taking bread, he blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, given for you. Eat it in my memory.”
20 He did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant written in my blood, blood poured out for you.
Reflection
There are few things in life as powerful as a delicious homemade meal. As someone frequently afflicted with hanger, I know that a happy tummy can improve even the worst of days or weeks. Good food shared with others brings joy, healing, and fellowship into a community. The Methodists know this and historically have leaned into it.
One of my favorite things about being a United Methodist is our Communion practices. Something that Pastor Joe says every time we begin this monthly ritual is, “This table does not belong to the United Methodist Church, but it belongs to Christ. He offers this invitation to all people, everywhere, who seek to live in a new or renewed relationship with God. All of you are welcome.”
This is how I grew up. I had never known anything else.
One time I went to a Catholic church service with a friend, and when she went up for communion, I did too. I thought nothing of it, until later I learned Catholic churches expect you to be a confirmed member of their organization before you’re supposed to take communion. OOPS! But also… Why?
The older I’ve gotten the more I appreciate the ministry of welcoming everyone to the table. Not just for Communion, but any occasion, Methodists know how to feed people. Casseroles, Pork and Bean dinners, and the Lenten Chowder Luncheons used to be a huge deal in Littleton, NH. People who never set foot in the sanctuary would be guaranteed a chair in the fellowship hall for a meal. This is one of the ways our pastor became familiar to everyone in town. We never had a booming Sunday worship, but we hosted a really good weekly supper and everyone was welcome. There was a price per plate, but I reflect on my memories now and realize, that was just a suggestion. Before the end of the meal, I know we set aside portions for local shut-ins who couldn’t make it, but we knew they needed a fresh hot meal.
Everyone was welcome; everyone was fed. To me, this has always been a significant form of ministry. Sharing a table, breaking bread, and sharing grape juice (because Methodist). Whether it’s communion, or corn chowder, or baked beans and brown bread, it feels good to share food because it’s the easiest way to share the love of Christ.
by Ashley Bowler
For Pondering and Prayer
How can you invite someone new to the table? Is there a way you can share a hot meal with someone who needs some extra love in their life?
Prayer: Dear God,
We are grateful for the opportunity to welcome everyone to the table. As we share bread, we are also sharing Your love. As we share the cup, we are also sharing Your forgiveness. Guide us in our lives to take every opportunity to feed all your children with Your unending love and grace. Amen.
