Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare. Isaiah 55:1-2 NIV
Last year, we went out to a popular chain restaurant as a family. From when we arrived until we paid the check, the experience was disappointing. The service was poor, and everyone's dishes were bland. When the bill came, we needed to pay using an electronic device on the table without any help from the server. Thankfully we had someone under 30 to help us figure it out. While the dining experience was not ideal, we were thrilled to spend treasured time as a family at a restaurant during COVID. Though it's not likely we will go back to that restaurant again; it has become a fun family memory and good for some laughs.
While our dining experience didn't meet our expectations, Isaiah tells of a different kind of meal; this one is perfect. Everything on the menu is sumptuous, not just edible, but the best food. Not only is it tasty, it is satisfying: we aren't left wanting more, but we are fully sated. The best part is it is totally free.
Every time we come to the Communion table, we experience this spiritual delight. The body and blood of Christ paid the price. It costs us nothing but the commitment to seek a new life, turning our focus from the temporal to the things that last. In sharing the sacraments, we experience a foretaste of the richest far that is promised. We share this meal with our heavenly family, those around us now, the saints who have preceded us, and Jesus Christ. Frequently we approach Communion somberly and with a sense of memorial. Yet, it is really a time of joy as we recall how we are redeemed, cherished, and participants at this fabulous celestial fete.
God, thank you for inviting us to your table. We no longer have to be disappointed or content with the things of this world because you offer us the very best of everything through Jesus Christ. Please help us remember our sharing in this feast and recall your promise each day. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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