1 Corinthians 11: 28 Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.
Paul has heard that the Corinthians are having private suppers at the church. Some are eating and drinking well, while others are leaving hungry. Paul is not happy with this--he says they either all eat together or else people can eat at home if they are not willing to share with everyone else. He cites the Communion as a reason. We share the Communion as a church, and everyone should be able to share in the food at church too.
Paul begins this chapter with the stuff about men and women which I so dislike. Why does Paul hate women? Then he comes to the dinner part. Now here I stand right behind him. Our church has the Wed. night dinners, and I am so proud of those who make that happen. They are really there for the community, and so many people who are not members come regularly. Everyone is welcome, a donation is welcome but not expected, and there is great fellowship along with a filling meal. We really should examine ourselves as Christians before we take Communion. Are we as open and welcoming to outsiders and to members as we can be?
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for those in Your (and my) church who welcome and feed so many each week. I will try to be more caring and sharing with my fellow man, as You and Your son would want me to be. Be with those who hunger, and help them to find Your people who will care for them.
Amen
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