Preparing Your Heart for Communion: A Guide to Spiritual Reflection

What is the Significance of Communion?

Communion, known also as the Lord's Supper, is a pivotal act in Christian worship where believers remember and honor the sacrifice Jesus Christ made on the cross. This practice stems from the Last Supper, the final meal Jesus shared with His disciples before His crucifixion. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke (Matthew 26:26-30, Mark 14:22-25, Luke 22:14-20) document this event, with John providing additional insights from chapter 13. During this meal, Jesus broke bread, symbolizing His body, and poured wine, representing His blood, instructing His followers to partake in this act in remembrance of Him.

How Often Should We Take Communion?

The Bible does not specify how often one should partake in communion. While some churches celebrate it weekly, others do so monthly or even less frequently. The key is not the frequency but the heart with which one approaches this sacred ordinance. As stated in 1 Corinthians 11:26 (NKJV), "For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes." This suggests that communion should be a regular part of Christian gatherings, focusing on the attitude of remembrance and celebration rather than a strict schedule.

Preparing Your Heart for Communion

Before participating in communion, it's beneficial to engage in a moment of prayer to prepare your heart:

1. Reflect

Reflect on the immense love and sacrifice of Jesus. As 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 reminds us, this act is not just a ritual but a remembrance of Christ's body given for us and His blood shed for the new covenant.

2. Repent

Examine your heart as instructed in 1 Corinthians 11:28. Use this time to confess any sins, seeking forgiveness and the desire to turn away from them, understanding the gravity of Christ's sacrifice.

3. Rejoice

Rejoice in the redemption and eternal life secured through Jesus's sacrifice. 1 Peter 1:18-19 highlights that our redemption was not with perishable things but with Christ's precious blood. This should fill us with joy and gratitude.

A Prayer Before Communion

Here's a prayer you might consider before taking communion:

Lord Jesus,

I pause to reflect on Your incredible sacrifice for my sins. As I partake of this bread and this cup, let me remember Your body broken and Your blood shed, not for Your own transgressions, but for mine. I come before You with a repentant heart, seeking Your forgiveness and grace. I thank You for this moment of communion, for the joy it brings knowing my sins are forgiven, and for the eternal life You've granted me through Your love. In Your holy name, Amen.

Living Out Communion

After participating in communion, let your life reflect the gratitude for Christ's sacrifice. Ephesians 4:1-3 urges us to live in a manner worthy of our calling, with humility, gentleness, patience, and unity. Remember daily the cost of your salvation, and let this remembrance guide your actions and interactions with others.

A Prayer for Daily Living

Lord,

Help me to live each day in a way that honors Your sacrifice. May my life reflect the humility, love, and unity You demonstrated. Keep me mindful of the price You paid for my redemption, and let this awareness shape my every step. In Jesus's name, Amen.