Reflecting on Luke 24:33-35“How Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.” (Luke 24:35)
These disciples finally recognize Jesus.
It was not His physical appearance or presence that helped them recognize Him.
Neither was it the way He explained the scriptures to them.
Their hearts were burning when He taught them, but this did not open their eyes.
It was when He broke the bread with them!
What is it about breaking bread with (eating together) that opens our eyes?
Sharing a meal together is more significant and spiritual than we realize.
A common table unites us as close intimates, as one family.
Slaves did not eat with their masters, nor did commoners eat with royalty.
There were clear distinctions about who was welcome to a table.
Jesus gathers AND welcomes misfits and outcasts to God’s table.
Nothing symbolizes the radical nature of grace like Jesus’s grace table.
As we sit and eat with Jesus and each other, we finally recognize WHO Jesus is.
Which is why I see closed communion and a guarded table contrary to the Gospel.
Jesus’s open table is how He opens our eyes to the wonder of God’s grace!
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, it is not enough to say grace at the table. Open our eyes to recognize grace at the table, and to share this grace with others who need to experience it too!