Christ's Table

Do you see communion as an opportunity to serve or be served? Why?

Jesus talked much about the role of service in the kingdom of God. His most passionate discussion of the subject comes as he sits around the table with his apostles eating his last Passover meal before his death (Luke 22:7-27). Luke paints a beautiful picture of fellowship as Jesus re-interprets the Passover meal to fit his own mission (22:17-20). Jesus gives new meaning to the Passover meal as he adapts some of the symbols (bread and wine) to fit his mission of inaugurating the new covenant. But the beautiful picture painted by Luke is smudged by a “dispute” among the apostles as to who would have the most authority in the new kingdom spoken of by Jesus (v. 24). Jesus passionately points out to them that his kingdom is not focused on authority but rather on service. After all, it is his kingdom not theirs. He is the head of the table in his kingdom (v. 27). Yet, though he has all authority, he chooses to demonstrate that authority by serving (v. 27). Thus, his followers are to follow his lead and serve one another.

This text has profound implications as we sit around the Lord’s Table each week. It is Christ’s table not ours. He is at the head of the table as we gather together each week. Even so, he demonstrates his authority by serving us. Thus, we should serve one another. Gathering around the Lord’s Table is not a time for arguing and disputing about correct interpretations and authoritative power struggles. It is an occasion for serving one another the symbols (bread and wine) that proclaim our common deliverance given us by the only sacrifice to have ever been raised from the dead. Indeed, God has called us to his table to celebrate what he accomplished on the altar of the cross. May he grant us grace as we serve one another around his table.