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. 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? 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.

We may not worship physical idols, but do you have idols in your heart?

How far will we go for someone’s soul?  

I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.

Life’s Great Wisdom - Appropriate Conduct

How do we glorify God in a world that seems to tell us opposing things?

The Corinthians had an appearance of humility, but were puffed up. What about us?

The ministry of an apostle, in Paul’s own words.