Communion Sunday...a reflection

I was raised Catholic, joining my Aunt and grandmother on Saturday evenings for mass was a highlight to my week. I would like to tell you it was because of the powerful message or to partake in communion but it wasn’t. I’m ashamed to admit the reason I went to church as a child and teen was for the perks that followed the mass. After church we were treated to dinner at Beck’s Hotel or the Golden Fish Restaurant. Neither of which are still open for business.

Each Sunday as I observed the communion rituals I craved to try some of the bread too but since I wasn’t baptized, this wasn’t possible. At the age of fifteen I decided to be baptized in the Catholic Church so I could go up for communion on Saturday night like everyone else. I still didn’t grasp the significance or power of this blessing. This is not to say communion wasn’t explained to me but it isn’t a memory I have. I viewed it as something everyone must do each week as part of the mass. I wanted to be like everyone else.

The Christian and Missionary Alliance church celebrates communion once a month. In 2004 I experienced the true meaning of communion and truly understood how much Jesus loved me and sacrifice He made for me (and you), for my sins. It was a transformation in my heart and true understanding. I remember explaining communion to my daughter when she was little. I wanted this same thing for her – to know and understand the significance and importance of accepting communion.

During the quiet of reflection and prayer, a soft and muffled grandmother’s voice explained communion to her precious grandson. It was a beautiful picture, one that triggered personal memories and joy in my heart. I couldn’t hear her exact words or his questions yet the tone and facial expressions exchanged warmed my heart. I tried not to stare and intrude on their moment yet it was so beautiful…it took my breath away.

Communion is about so much more than bread and juice –it is all about Jesus. It took me awhile to get this. I prioritized it when my daughter started to ask questions. A grandmother’s love for her grandson and the Lord combined with a message that God remembers me…another blessed communion Sunday.

Do you have a communion memory
you would like to share today?