Having grown up in the church, partaking of the bread and cup in Holy Communion is one of the few deep-seated constants. From the breaking of the unleavened bread, to the pouring of the grape juice, to the singing of hymns, and to the receiving of a part of both wholes, one way or another, every sacrament has never ceased to move me.

However, allowing myself to be moved is a very conscious decision, a very mindful act. Otherwise, it becomes all too easy to move through the superficially ordinary and routine service. As with all sacraments, their spiritual significance, everything our eyes and limbs cannot discern, surpasses their physical simplicities. 

The central understanding is that in the partaking of the Holy Communion, we remember God’s love for us.

“This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 

Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. 

You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.” 

– John 15:12-14

In total submission to God’s will from start to finish, it is because of Jesus’ sacrifice that the church can be established. Each of us was bought, brought, included and counted worthy, justified through Jesus alone.

If we understand that it takes every one of us to complete the body of Jesus, that is the church, why do we still choose one over another? Or why do we stubbornly pursue self-directed agendas, cast Christ’s purpose far from mind?

“But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. 

And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; 

nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 

– 1 Corinthians 12:20-21

Pointedly reminded to humbly examine our hearts by this chapter’s example of spiritual and physical divisions in the church, in conjunction with the unifying grace of Christ’s death, let us also pray and endeavour to esteem others above ourselves, that we may dwell and work together for the good of one another and the glory of God.