Partake
Originally scheduled for February 21, 2010
In every congregation there exists a small group of people for
whom the right English expression is very different from the “almost
right” English expression.
They are the grammar police; they believe there really is a
difference between “lightning” and “lightning bug.”
Should you encounter such, you may confirm the fact that the
word, “partake,” is something that cannot be done alone.
It implies sharing.
That carries with it two implications.
First, you must have enough to share.
Second, you must have someone with whom to share it.
(Never end a sentence with a preposition).
Thus we partake of Communion.
Enough to share
We can rejoice in our Lord’s generosity, for there is indeed
enough to share:
·
The
sacrifice of Christ, once and for all, is sufficient for all
mankind. It’s not just
for the first 144,000 applicants.
·
Christ’s sacrifice is intended for all – “whosoever will,” as the
Scripture assures us.
·
More
than that, it is sufficient for all our sins – no matter what you
have done, as a repentant sinner you are welcome at his table.;
Sharing with others
Sometimes it feels like we take Communion alone – in a crowd
of people. But having
those who share with us has its effects:
·
In
sharing we build the unity of the church.
When you share a meal with someone it’s hard to be angry with
them. In an ordinary
meal you pass the salt; in this one you pass the bread of life.
·
The
Scripture declares that by participating in one loaf we become one
body. Somehow, in ways
that we may not understand, we become one in Christ by being one in
this supper.
Therefore, as we come together to share this meal, do not take
of the bread and cup.
Partake.
