The Power of Coming Together

Devotional: In our increasingly digital and disconnected world, there’s something profound about physically gathering with other believers. When we come together for communion, we’re not just occupying the same space – we’re participating in a sacred act that transcends our individual experiences. This physical togetherness reminds us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves: the body of Christ. Just as many grains form one loaf of bread, we too are called to be unified in our worship and devotion to Jesus. This unity isn’t about uniformity in all things, but about our shared recognition of Christ’s sacrifice and our common need for His grace.
Verse: “For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.” – 1 Corinthians 10:17

Question: How does your physical presence in worship impact both your own spiritual journey and the unity of your church family?

Quote: There’s something powerful that happens when what Jesus gave us is given to us again as a gathered body.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of community. Help me to value the physical gathering of believers and to contribute to the unity of Your body. Show me how to better connect with my church family and strengthen our bonds in You. Amen.

The Humility of Grace

Devotional: Grace is the great equalizer. When we approach the Lord’s Table, we all come exactly the same way – as sinners in need of mercy. No one stands taller, no one kneels lower. Our achievements, status, or perceived spiritual maturity mean nothing in light of Christ’s sacrifice. This beautiful truth should fill us with both humility and gratitude. It reminds us that we never outgrow our need for grace, and we never earn the right to look down on others. The table invites us to lay aside our pride and embrace the gift of salvation that comes through Christ alone.
Verse: “For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.'” – 1 Corinthians 11:23-24

Question: In what ways might pride or self-righteousness be hindering your relationship with God or others in your church family?

Quote: We all come to the table the same by the mercy and the grace of Jesus, and nothing else matters. And we are all in need of his mercy and grace.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, humble my heart. Help me to remember that I stand only by Your grace, and teach me to extend that same grace to others. Remove any pride that separates me from You or Your people. Amen.

The Present Christ

Devotional: When we gather around the Lord’s Table, we’re not just remembering a historical event – we’re experiencing the living presence of Christ among us. This isn’t just symbolic; it’s a spiritual reality that transforms our worship. Jesus is actively present, ministering to our hearts, healing our wounds, and drawing us closer to Himself. This truth should fill us with anticipation each time we approach communion, knowing that we’re not just going through motions but entering into a real encounter with our living Savior.
Verse: “Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?'” – Luke 24:31-32

Question: How can you prepare your heart to be more aware of Christ’s presence during communion?

Quote: When believers gather to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the Lord himself is living and present in the celebration of the meal as the participants look forward to his coming again. Mark Taylor
Prayer: Lord Jesus, open my eyes to recognize Your presence in worship, especially during communion. Help me to approach Your table with expectancy, knowing You are truly there. Make my heart burn with love for You. Amen.

The Call to Self-Examination

Devotional: Self-examination before communion isn’t about achieving perfection – it’s about maintaining authenticity in our relationship with God and others. This involves honest reflection on our attitudes, actions, and relationships. Are we harboring unforgiveness? Are we living in willful disobedience? Are we contributing to division rather than unity? These questions aren’t meant to discourage us from participating, but to help us approach the table with sincerity and openness to God’s transforming work in our lives.
Verse: “So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.” – 1 Corinthians 11:27-28

Question: What areas of your life need attention before you next participate in communion?

Quote: Paul says we must examine ourselves to make sure we’re not doing this in an unworthy manner.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, search my heart and reveal anything that needs to change. Give me courage to face these areas honestly and grace to make necessary changes. Help me to approach Your table with sincerity. Amen.

The Gospel Proclamation

Devotional: Every time we participate in communion, we’re doing more than remembering – we’re proclaiming. Our participation becomes a powerful witness to the world of Christ’s death, resurrection, and promised return. This proclamation happens not just through the elements themselves, but through our unity, our humility, and our love for one another. When we approach the table with reverence and joy, we’re showing the world what it means to be transformed by the gospel. This is why our attitude and approach matter so much – we’re not just participating in a ritual, we’re presenting the gospel in action.
Verse: “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” – 1 Corinthians 11:26

Question: How can you make your participation in communion a more effective witness to those around you?

Quote: By eating the bread, by drinking the cup, we are proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world.
Prayer: Father God, help me to participate in communion in a way that clearly proclaims Your gospel. Let my attitude and actions reflect the transforming power of Your love. Use my participation to draw others to You. Amen.