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Communion: Look Back, Look Forward, Look In, Look Around

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-32

Communion. It's a familiar ritual in many churches, but do we truly grasp its significance? This week, Pastor Eddy guided us through 1 Corinthians 11, revealing that communion is more than just bread and wine; it's a profound opportunity to connect with God on multiple levels.

 

Look Back: Remembering Christ's Sacrifice

Paul reminds us of the origin of communion, instituted by Jesus Himself on the night He was betrayed. The bread represents His body, broken for us; the cup, His blood, shed for our forgiveness (1 Corinthians 11:23-25).

As we partake, we look back to the cross, remembering the ultimate sacrifice that made our salvation possible. We are filled with gratitude for the love that compelled Jesus to give His life for us.

 

Look Forward: Anticipating His Return

Communion isn't just about the past; it's also about the future. Each time we partake, we proclaim Jesus' death "until He comes again" (1 Corinthians 11:26).

This reminds us that our redemption is not yet complete. We live in the "already, but not yet" tension of the Kingdom of God. We eagerly await the day when Christ will return and make all things new.

 

Look In: Examining Our Hearts

Paul calls for self-examination before partaking in communion. We are to discern the condition of our hearts, confessing any unrepentant sin (1 Corinthians 11:27-28).

This isn't about morbid introspection, but about honest reflection. Are we harboring bitterness, unforgiveness, or pride? Are we living in a way that honors Christ? Communion prompts us to align our lives with the Gospel.

 

Look Around: Helping Others Escape Eternal Judgement

Communion isn't just a personal experience; it's also a communal one. As we examine ourselves, we are also called to look around, extending grace, forgiveness, and the truth of the gospel to others (1 Corinthians 11:32).

This also means reaching out to those who have hurt us - offering reconciliation and support. It means building up the body of Christ - encouraging one another in our walk with God.

 

Communion: A Multifaceted Encounter with God

Communion is a powerful reminder of God's love, a celebration of our salvation, and a call to holy living. It's a time to look back, look forward, look in, and look around.

As we partake, may we be filled with gratitude, hope, and a renewed commitment to follow Christ. May we be a community that reflects His love and grace to the world.

 

Reflection Questions:

  • How does communion help you connect with God on a deeper level?
  • In what ways can you prepare your heart for communion?
  • How can you extend grace and forgiveness to others, as Christ has extended it to you?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of communion. May I remember your sacrifice, anticipate your return, examine my heart, and extend grace to others. May this be a time of renewal and recommitment to your service. Amen.

Key Verse:

"For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord's death until he comes again." - 1 Corinthians 11:26 (NLT)