Celebrating together

For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.           — 1 Cor. 11:26

Many churches celebrate the first Sunday in October as World Communion Sunday. It is a time to observe the Lord’s Supper with a special awareness of celebrating together with our brothers and sisters in Christ around the globe. On this day, being with a community of believers has become very meaningful to me.

One year, however, I found myself in an airport with a long flight ahead and no opportunity to attend church on that day. Sitting alone, I read the Gospel accounts of the Last Supper, along with the passages describing Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. Then from 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, I pondered the words so often read at communion services: “The Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread . . .” (v. 23). With some common elements to represent the bread and the cup, I observed the Lord’s death for us, feeling a deep kinship with those followers of Christ in many places who are unable or forbidden to gather with others in worship.

Whatever your location and circumstances today, may you find joy and strength in remembering the Lord’s sacrifice on the cross. “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes” (v. 26).      — David McCasland

When Christians join in blessed fellowship

Commemorating Jesus’ sacrifice,

They sense a common bond of unity

Because for every race He paid the price.        — Hess

READ: 1 Cor. 11:23-26

Celebrating Christ together brings strength and joy.

The Bible in one year:

• Isaiah 14-16

• Ephesians 5:1-16