It was Communion Sunday at church. I always try to attend the second Sunday of the month so I can be part of this symbolic gesture as we renew our relationship Christ and remember his sacrifice for me
. As the trays of communion wafers and cups of red liquid are passed through the church, there is always some beautiful song playing in the background. Our church takes the cups and wafers as a church body and we wait until every one has the "body and blood of Christ" in their hands. It is a solemn ritual and one I take very seriously.
During one of our recent communion services, there was a pew with several residents from a local convalescent home. As the communion plates are passed along, it was handed to an elderly man who wasn't able to hold the plate upright. His neighbor held the bulky plate for him as he tried to grasp ahold of a cup and pick a small 4 cm. wafer out of the bowl with crippled fingers twisted by the ravages of arthritis and age. The church usher stood by his side and helped him to get hold of the two items. With shaking hands and determination to keep the cup upright and not spill it, the old man tucked his hands under his arms to steady them. The congregation waited patiently, the song was extended effortlessly and the pastor held off the prayer until the old man was composed and ready.
As the congregation of 500 took communion and thanks, I thought, wouldn't it be wonderful if the world could just slow down a bit to accommodate those who are a little slower than ourselves, be considerate and thoughtful of others, and to help each other in times of need, even if its just the smallest gesture?
Be grateful and live the day to its fullest. It is a gift. Thank God above for all the riches you enjoy.
This day, do a good deed for another out of the love of your heart.