The Euchirist

I consider myself to be an Intentional, Missional, Liturgical, Methodist, Catholic. Some might say that's an Episcopalian, but I'm a part of a Methodist Faith Community.Even so, much of what other Christian Communities practice has real meaning for me. The Eucharist is a great example.


As I said, I'm Methodist by trade and we use grape juice not wine when we celebrate Holy Communion. I call it "Blood Lite". We are afraid that if we celebrate the Eucharist with wine, we may tempt alcoholics or wannabe alcoholics to jump off the wagon. I'm an alcoholic. Never has taking the Eucharist with a community of believers who choose to use wine sent me on a 4 day vodka binge. Quite the contrary. I find great strength and comfort in knowing that God would not tempt me in that way. Admittedly, I do just let the wine touch my lips. As my second favorite President , Bill Clinton, would say, "I don't inhale." (My favorite President won't be sworn in until Jan 20, 2009!!!).


The point is, I believe the Eucharist is a sacrament or practice that we as Christians should take very seriously and delve into very deeply. The deeper you take yourself into such ancient practices the more meaning your whole Christian Walk will have. I experience Christ's presence two ways when I take the Eucharist.


First, I truly believe that something mystical happens to the bread and the wine. I'm not sure if it happens when it is blessed or when it is ingested by believers, I just know it is transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ. We take Christ deeply into our lives and by doing so together, we distinguish ourselves as a community.


Secondly, I truly believe that Christ is present with us at the time of Holy Communion. Not just the Holy Spirit but also the Spirit of Christ Himself. I pray for Him to be there, walking amongst us, touching us inside and out. I feel Christ there, I know He is there and my knowing it is enough to make it real for me.


Don't get me wrong. I'm not knocking the way any faith community approaches the Eucharist. I'm not even saying my way is the right way. All I'm saying is that it is real for me and it enriches my walk in The Way of Christ.