The Breaking of Bread

Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’  And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.’  -Luke 22:19-20 

It has never ceased to amaze me that Communion consists of elements that are not only common but so intrinsic to our lives. Bread and wine or grape juice inseparably combine the fruits of the earth and the work of our hands. Grains of wheat must be ground into flour, kneaded and baked before they turn into bread. Grapes must be crushed and processed before they become juice or wine. These elements are not only the most basic of foods and drinks, but they are incredibly human. Only human beings can make bread and process the fruit of the vine, but also, Scripture tells us that we too, are formed of the dust of the earth, something we recently reflected on as ashes were put on our foreheads. We too, in our very being, are intimately connected to the natural world God has made but also bear the very image and handprint of God.  

Communion is also amazing because it is, at its core, a communal meal. The gospels tell us that Jesus instituted this act of remembrance at the end of the Passover meal that he shared with his disciples before he went to the cross. It was in the intimacy of sitting around the dinner table that Jesus shared his final words of challenge, warning and encouragement. It was also with the bread and wine that were essential to the Passover meal and every other meal that our Lord instituted the act through which we are united to him and to each other.  

Spiritual Practice: At the Table 

The presence of water itself and the act of washing and bathing can remind us of our baptism. Similarly, the very act of being at the table, eating with those we love, or even simply enjoying the good gifts of God on our own, can remind us of the meal that Jesus shared with his disciples and to which he invites us.  

This week, when you sit down to eat with your family or friends, or in a quiet moment by yourself, take a moment to give thanks, not just as a routine, but to really appreciate the gift of the food on the table and the people you can share it with. Pray for those whose work was responsible for bringing the food to you. Pray that God shows you ways in which

you can work for justice on their behalf. Pray for those who don’t have enough for their daily bread and pray for ways that you and your family can help them.  

If you can do this just once this week, you would have gotten the benefit of this exercise. If you have children, you can invite them to offer a prayer of thanksgiving or talk about what they appreciate about the meal before them. May this provide an opportunity to reflect on your connection to God’s creation, to the Lord who made everything and to all those who, like us, are invited to the Lord’s table.  

Love and blessings,  

Pastor Julia