4-Feb-24

Sometimes, as Jesus did in our gospel verse for today, it is important to be alone with God.  Other times, it is impossible (or at least difficult) to see God at work and to hear God speak without being in the presence of other believers.  It's that second instance we're in here at the Table.  Even if you are taking communion by yourself, you are a part of all people, in all times and places, that join together here at the Table.
All of us come to the table, recognizing that we are sinners, in need of God's forgiveness.  All of us come to the table, rejoicing that we are called children of God and adopted into God's family.  All of us come to the table, seeing our brothers and sisters in Christ and realizing that they, too belong here.
Let us pray.

Prayer:

God, who sent the living statement of your love for us in Jesus Christ, we thank you for your open invitation to this table.  We thank you for the symbols of bread and cup that represent all that you gave to forgive us and welcome us into your family.  We pray that, as we take this bread and cup, you will open our eyes to see our brother and sisters, to forgive as you forgave us, and to welcome them as you welcomed us.  Let us truly represent your Church in our world.
In the name of Jesus, our Christ, AMEN