“Pour out your Holy Spirit on us gathered here, and on these gifts of bread and wine.  Make them be for us the body and blood of Christ, that we may be for the world the body of Christ, redeemed by his blood.”  – United Methodist Hymnal; Communion Service p. 14

Question for the day?  How does the sacrament of Holy Communion affect you?  Do you experience it as a transformative means of grace?

Friends,

I finished up my time at the Academy last week with a fascinating encounter with our Lord, and just want to share it.

Every day at the same time during our session, we have a communion service.  I have always loved communion services:  the tradition, the symbolism, the feeling of being made new in His presence.  It has always been a very peaceful experience for me.

Well on this particular day, something amazing happened.  I stepped up to receive my bread and juice, but as soon as I put it in my mouth, I had this overwhelming sense of the presence of Jesus.  It reminded me of that scripture, “The one that lives in you is greater than the one that lives in this world.”

I can’t really describe the feeling, but it was tangible and powerful.  At that moment, I knew that Jesus actually lives inside me.  I have never had such a powerful experience during communion, and I hope I never forget it.

Lord Jesus,

Praise be to the One who was, who is, and who is to come!  Thank you seems like such a weak sentiment when it comes to Your sacrifice for me.  But it is all I have to give.  Please hear the song of my heart and the gratitude of my soul for the salvation that You bring.

Forgive me Lord, for being blind to the grace offered me during this Holy Sacrament of communion.  Thank you for speaking to me in such a powerful way.  Please Lord, continue Your transforming work in me each day, and help me to honor Your holy presence within me.  For I understand now, my body is the temple of Your Holy Spirit.

In the name of my Redeemer I pray,

Amen