Scripture:

In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. … I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge — that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
— Ephesians 3:12, 15-19 (NIV)

Devotional:

Communion at Arcola happens on a regular schedule, and can seem like an “ordinary” day. It comes as we all are going about our normal routine, getting the family out the door for service, living everyday life. One of the great things about Communion days is the tangible reminder that this is no ordinary day. You walk in, smell the bread, and suddenly the day is a special day: we will share the Body and Blood of Christ with our fellow worshipers, and be reminded of His love for us. 

On the occasions when Lisa and I serve Communion, I’m struck by the varied ways that people come and receive that precious gift. Some come as I generally do — head bowed, hands cupped, receiving the gift before actually handling it. Others reach for it, eagerly, a present waiting to be unwrapped. Some are silent, others offer a sincere “Amen,” and a few give a heartfelt “thank you.” 

Some days the Spirit is bursting forth in us on that walk to the altar; other days we question if we’re worthy of the walk. We come from different backgrounds, with different burdens, and with different joys but united by the One who allowed His Body to be broken and His Blood to be shed to celebrate our union with God. 

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, we thank You for your sacrifice on our behalf. We acknowledge our sins — our selfishness, our failure to live as You’ve taught us — and gratefully accept that You have forgiven us and welcome us into communion with You. May we take that grace into the world. Amen. 

Written by Jon McHenry. Jon leads our devotional team, is a council member, worship speaker and part of the men's ministry at Arcola Church. He is a devoted husband and father.