My faith tradition has a very special service called the Love Feast. It’s a communion service with a difference. Modeled after John 13, the service starts with foot washing, followed by a simple mean and finally bread and cup communion. It may sound odd, but it builds unity in the body and it can be quite beautiful. In addition, the service takes quite literally the scriptural call to self examination and relational examination before taking communion.
1 Corinthians 11:27-29 says “So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves. That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep.” Paul is basically saying, “Check yourself before you wreck yourself.” Communion is all about union, in other words unity. It is meant to remind us we all have a part in Jesus death because He died for our sins. In the same way, all who have received Christ, share in His resurrection. Communion puts us all on a level playing field, sinners saved by grace. From this pride should be replaced by unity, love and gratitude. Any less and we’re not doing it right. Look at the condition of the church today. We can do better. We can be more humble, more loving… and on and on and on.
In the past, the deacons in a church would visit every family and ask three questions all designed to build up and strengthen the body. That tradition doesn’t happen much any more, so I decided to do it digitally.
This video is part of a new presentation I will be offering soon on communion and the Love Feast. Contact me for more details.
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