One of the greatest challenges for me is focusing during the Lord’s Supper. I realize we are gathered to remember the greatest story that has ever been told-the story of grace offered through Christ’s death. But I have three kids who are often too active. In a few short moments following the Supper I am going to be delivering a sermon that I hope is powerful and convincing to the listeners. There are other distractions as well: the kids chatting behind, the screaming baby on the other side of the auditorium, etc.
If your spiritual family is like mine, you try to remedy that in a variety of ways. You sing a song to “prepare your minds for the Lord’s Supper.” Often one will read scripture and make comments to help us understand our purpose. The prayers for the bread and cup will often serve as a reminder. I have often read the scriptures to help me focus on the Memorial Feast. All of that is good. But when the plates are passed the distractions increase. It’s apparent Satan attends the assemblies!
Recently I found a great tool to help combat this problem. Beneath the Cross: Essays and Reflections on the Lord’s Supper is a tremendous tool for improving your communion with the Lord. This collection includes sixty-nine essays and articles that apply to the Lord’s Supper. The book can easily be carried into the assembly and used during your reflection of the cross during this important time.
I’ve enjoyed using Beneath the Cross personally for this reason. I mark the date I’ve read each entry in the margins of the page. I can often read one or two entries depending on the size each Sunday. I have benefited greatly from this great tool. I recommend this book highly.
Beneath the Cross is published by DeWard Publishing Company and can be purchased directly at www.dewardpublishing.com or you can call them directly at 800.300.9778.
