January 7, 2012 - Church at Worship

Homily: "The Promise" - Randy Roberts

Pastoral Welcome: Shawna Campbell



Celebration of the Lord’s Supper

Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:26–29, TNIV - Kathy Peverini

Prayer of Blessing: Patty Marruffo

Sermon Notes:

I have noticed that many Christ-followers minimize Communion as a mere ritual. Often,
church attendance is down the week Communion is celebrated. I have even watched members arrive at church, look into the sanctuary, see that it was Communion Sabbath, and turn
around and leave! Why the discomfort with this age-old service? After all, we celebrate many
rituals in our lives.

Christmas, New Year, Thanksgiving and Fourth of July are all holidays to which are attached
many specific “rituals” of celebration. We even develop rituals by which we celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. And we wouldn’t do well if someone suggested changing any of
those. For example, suppose this coming Thanksgiving, you said to your family, “We’re going
to change things up a bit this year. Instead of the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, we’re going
to have popcorn and apples out on the back porch!” Would your suggested “alteration” of the
ritual of Thanksgiving be well-received?

Ritual likely isn’t the problem. What is a problem is when a ritual loses its internal meaning; when it becomes empty. Void a ritual of its meaning and discontent is sure to follow. In
today’s service and sermon, then, be attentive to the internal meanings of Communion
and of what it means for your life here, now, today. It just may revitalize your experience
of Communion.

God’s richest to you and yours.

Randy Roberts
Senior Pastor