Symbol of Unity
Originally scheduled for February 22
The use of symbols and ritual in Christianity
is, on the whole, rather limited. But in those instances where it is
provided, the usefulness of symbol and ritual is very great. For
example,
·
Those who are not particularly
learned — indeed, those who are illiterate — can see and understand
that which they cannot read.
·
Symbol and ritual by their very
nature allow each of us to invoke our own personal experiences. We
all agree on what a wedding ring means, though each of us brings our
own experience of marriage to the understanding.
·
Those who disagree on the meaning of
a ritual may still insist on unity in the church. If this happens,
then the ritual may allow those who are in disagreement to be united
in Christ.
We may examine that last point in a bit more
detail. It is almost impossible for any large group of Christians,
meeting together, to agree on every last little point of doctrine.
But at some point the disagreement is of far less value than the
unity of the church. Sometimes we need to present the truth in a way
that it can be understood differently by different people without
sacrificing the innermost meaning. For example,
·
There is endless disagreement over
who, precisely. is forgiven and by what process. But all of us agree
that the root of forgiveness is found in the body and blood of our
Savior, sacrificed on the cross.
·
Perhaps the most prominent
disagreement today concerns the return of Christ. There are three
predominant theories, each of which can be broken down into
hundreds, even thousands, of different understandings. But we
celebrate communion “until He comes.” This, of course, implies that
we all believe he will return.
·
To become more common disagreement,
consider the question of what works of charity the church in a given
location should perform. Money, people and other resources are
limited; wisdom is required in making the choice. We all agreed that
there is no greater love than that which was shown to us at the
Cross. It is this love of which we are reminded when we take
communion.
On the last night before he was crucified,
Christ prayed “that they may be one.” The source of our unity and
union is in Christ himself; it is to be shown in the way that we
love one another. Why is this union so necessary? We are to proclaim
the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord. It’s hard to believe
a bunch of people with a story like that who are constantly
bickering over trivial matters. By Christ we proclaim union; we
claim the power of the cross and we look forward to his return. As
you partake remember that he wants us to be one. Take this communion
in a worthy manner; if you know your brother has something against
you, get it cleared up. One fruit of love is forgiveness; and we are
to be known as disciples by our love for one another.
