The Importance of Communion
One of the most profound aspects of our Christian faith is the practice of communion. This sacred act is not merely a ritual but a deep, spiritual experience that brings us closer to God and reminds us of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Today, let’s delve into the core of communion and explore its significance in our lives. To guide us, we can turn to a passage from 1 John 1:9, which states, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
The Essence of Confession
As we approach communion, it is essential to prepare our hearts and minds. This preparation involves a sincere confession of our sins. Confession is not about listing our wrongdoings to feel guilty or ashamed; rather, it is an acknowledgment of our human frailty and our need for God’s grace. When we confess our sins to God, we are opening our hearts to God’s healing and transformative power.
1 John 1:9 assures us that God is faithful and just. This means that He is reliable and fair in His dealings with us. When we come to Him with a contrite heart, He does not turn us away. Instead, He forgives us and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. This cleansing is not a superficial act but a profound purification that renews our spirit and aligns us with God’s will.
The Universality of Sin
As we prepare for communion, it is crucial to remember that none of us are better than others. We are all sinners in dire need of forgiveness. This realization fosters a sense of humility and unity among believers. It reminds us that we are all on the same journey, striving to live according to God’s commandments and seeking His grace.
The universality of sin is a humbling truth. It strips away any pretense of self-righteousness and compels us to rely solely on God’s mercy. In a world that often promotes self-sufficiency and individualism, acknowledging our need for God’s forgiveness is a counter-cultural act. It is a declaration that we cannot save ourselves and that we need a Savior, and that is Jesus.
Forgiveness Through Relationship
The way to access forgiveness is not through our deeds or efforts. It is not about how many good works we perform or how pious we appear. Forgiveness is accessible through a relationship with Jesus Christ. This relationship is the cornerstone of our faith. It is through knowing Jesus and accepting Him as our Lord and Savior that we receive the gift of forgiveness.
In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This statement underscores the exclusivity of Jesus as the path to God. It is not through our merit but through His sacrifice that we are reconciled with God. Jesus’ death on the cross was the ultimate act of love and redemption. By accepting Him, we are granted access to God’s grace and forgiveness.
Communion: A Reflection of Our Relationship
Communion is a reflection of our relationship with Jesus. It is a time to remember His sacrifice and to renew our commitment to Him. As we partake in the bread and the wine, we are reminded of His body broken for us and His blood shed for our sins. This act of remembrance is not a passive ritual but an active engagement with the core of our faith.
In 1 Corinthians 11:24-25, Paul recounts Jesus’ words during the Last Supper: “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me… This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” These words invite us to participate in communion with a heart full of gratitude and reverence. They call us to reflect on the magnitude of Jesus’ sacrifice and to live in a manner worthy of His great love.
Wrestling with God’s Word
As we prepare our hearts for communion, it’s also a time to wrestle with God’s Word. This wrestling is not about doubting or questioning God’s truth but about engaging deeply with it. It involves examining our lives in light of Scripture and allowing God’s Word to convict and transform us.
Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word of God as “living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword.” It penetrates our hearts and reveals our innermost thoughts and intentions. As we wrestle with God’s Word, we are confronted with our shortcomings and challenged to grow in our faith. This process is not always comfortable, but it is necessary for our spiritual maturity.
Call to Action
In conclusion, communion is a profound act that lies at the heart of our Christian faith. It is a time to confess our sins, acknowledge our need for God’s forgiveness, and renew our relationship with Jesus. So as we approach the communion table each week, let’s do so with hearts full of humility, gratitude, and reverence. Let’s remember that forgiveness is not about what we do but about who we know–Jesus. It’s through our relationship with Jesus Christ that we are cleansed from all unrighteousness and granted the gift of eternal life. May we remember this truth every week.
Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes invites you to join us this Sunday to experience the forgiveness and grace that Jesus freely offers to us!
