Consider the joy of breaking bread together….
It is a wonderful thing to sit at the table with family or friends and share a meal together. Good food, with great conversation, is a wonderful combination!
This weekend we begin a new sermon series based on Henri Nouwen’s book, Life of the Beloved. In the next few weeks we will be studying what it means to live as a disciple of Jesus as part of an authentic Christian community. The four verbs that are included in the liturgy for the Eucharist (the Sacrament of Holy Communion) will be explored: Taken, Blessed, Broken, and Given.
Jesus did some of his best work at the table, breaking bread with others:
He ate dinner with Zacchaeus, a known tax collector, who was delighted to host Jesus in his home
He enjoyed food, friendship, and fellowship in Bethany with his friends, Lazarus, Martha, and Mary
The night before He was crucified, Jesus took ancient symbols of bread and wine, used in the Passover feast, and invited His followers to be a part of a new covenant, communing together in remembrance of Him.
As the Risen Christ, He revealed His identity to His companions in Emmaus as He broke bread with them.
In our world today which seems bent on division and discord, not unity and harmony, this sermon series will challenge us to embrace our neighbors in love as we step up to be the body of Christ.
We look forward to sharing the Lord’s Day with you this weekend.
Joy in our Risen Lord,
Pastor Cathy Johns