Maundy Thursday

Across the world people are celebrating Maundy Thursday.  This year at Emmanuel Lutheran it looks like the celebration of first communion for 27 youth and their families.  The youth have prepared for the last 2 months.  Finally after all the study, conversation, activities and chalice painting they were finally presented with their first communion. 

Teaching the youth's first communion class is extremely meaningful for me.  The sacrament of Holy Communion can be such a powerful experience.  I find serving communion and teaching first communion class holy ground.  Here are some things that I find most meaningful about communion . . .

1.  Holy Communion is a way in which we communicate our Christian story to future generations.  Just like the Passover held tradition close for the Israelites, communion can hold the same tradition for us.  By taking our children and youth to worship, hearing the words of how Jesus sat with his disciples and shared a meal, being community together . . . this can all hold our Christian story close and share it with others. 

2.  Holy Communion was commanded by Christ.  Jesus said, "Do this in remembrance of me."  Jesus told us to celebrate this meal with others and remember him.  So we should do that . . . as often as we can.

3.  Holy Communion is a celebration of forgiveness.  Jesus continued by saying, "Do this in remembrance of me for the forgiveness of sins."  God's free gift of grace gives us salvation.  Celebrating Holy Communion reminds us of Jesus Christ dying on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins.

May you experience a meaningful Maundy Thursday.  May you receive Holy Communication with open hands, open hearts and a forgiven (and forgiving) spirit.