Make Room at the Table

The Corinthians gathered for a meal meant to remember Jesus, yet their behavior contradicted its meaning. Some ate their own food ahead of others, leaving one person hungry while another became drunk. Paul names the resulting humiliation of those who lacked enough as contempt for God’s assembly. He then recalls the bread and cup: Jesus gave himself for his people, and their shared meal proclaimed his death. Their treatment of one another could not be separated from that proclamation. Paul’s practical instruction to wait for one another therefore carries real spiritual weight. Self-examination is not presented as a reason to remain permanently away from the table, but as preparation to participate rightly. For us, remembering Christ includes examining whether our conduct makes fellow believers feel expendable. The meal that proclaims his self-giving must not become an occasion for selfishness.

Put the Word into practice

Before your next celebration of the Lord’s Supper, examine whether you have overlooked or humiliated someone in the congregation, and take a concrete step to repair that relationship.

Search the Scripture

Why is Paul’s instruction to wait for one another an essential response to his teaching about the Lord’s Supper?

A prayerful response

Jesus, thank you for giving yourself for your people. Forgive my indifference toward those I gather beside. As I remember your death, teach me to welcome others with patience, dignity, and practical care.