My mind wandered to the wine. “This is my blood, shed for you.” We don’t drink wine here at my brother’s home, and it wouldn’t necessarily cross my mind as an option at this time in the morning even if we did. As I reached for my cup of tea it occurred to me that it doesn’t need to be wine, per se, just acknowledgement that His blood was shed for me, that I would be redeemed. This particular tea, one of my favorites, made it all the more special to think about the gift of life I’ve received through the blood of Christ.
It’s been a while since I’ve taken “real” communion. Even so, as a sacrament it is intended to be a reminder of the sacrifice that Jesus made on our behalf. Whether we take it seldom, annually, monthly, weekly or daily, the intent is the same. We are to meditate on the cost of our redemption. For me, acknowledging the act of eating and the act of drinking each time in light of my God’s sacrifice draws me nearer to Him. I could wait for the next time “official” communion rolls around to meditate deeper on what Jesus has done for me, or I can meditate on it hanging over the sink eating a slice of bread and drinking a cup of Lapsang Souchong tea.
As I look out the window, the fresh snow glittering like diamonds in the bright sun, God’s handiwork displayed brings peace and comfort to me. Sipping tea and eating a simple meal of a piece of bread somehow fits this moment of reflection. God’s glory in simplicity. His great love, grace and mercy, embodied in a small moment of remembrance. God is good . . . all the time!