Thanksgiving and Communion. Breaking bread.
Today we celebrate both Thanksgiving and World Communion Day. The parallels are obvious. We celebrate with joy the gifts that we have been given to us in our life both spiritual and temporal. We get together to share a meal and celebrate our fellowship. Kith and kin gather, as in the last days with Jesus to celebrate life, friendship, our treasures and tribulations and hopes for the future.
Jesus made us the promise of a brighter tomorrow in fellowship with him as he took the sins of the world upon himself.
1 Corinthians 11:23 – 25, “The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”
When we gather for communion or Thanksgiving it is an opportunity to show the unity of spirit and bonds of fellowship. Our hearth and home are our place of strength and solace as Jesus is for our salvation.
Ephesians 4:3-5: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit – just as you were called to one hope when you were called – one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all in all.”
The idea of breaking bread has always been a sign of open friendship. To break bread is to open ones home and meal to those we show a trust and faith in. Jesus did us that same honour. To feast with someone is to get to know then to open up to trust and friendship.
Originally Thanksgiving was a liturgical celebration marking the end of harvest in Europe. The origins of North American Thanksgiving are under some debate BUT……. It was celebrated in Canada long before the pilgrims came to the US.
According to some historians, the first celebration of Thanksgiving in North America occurred during the 1578 voyage of Martin Frobisher from England, in search of the Northwest Passage.
So no poor American cousin even if Mr. Trump thinks else wise.
Our wish to all, is that the basis of breaking bread where we open our doors to friends and family to share in a celebration of life, faith and hope imbues your celebration.
In loving remembrance of Jesus and his promise to us.
Noral R.