His Glorious Body

By C. Robert Wetzel

Glory to God in the highest!

Coming to the Lord”s table is an occasion to celebrate the glory of God and the promise of our participation in his glory. Traditionally we have often sung in preparation for the Lord”s Supper, “In the Cross of Christ I Glory.” More recently it may be, “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High.” But every Lord”s Day we are reminded in a special way of God”s power, majesty, and love.

How extraordinary that the God who created all things should reveal himself in the person of Jesus Christ! How glorious that the Word who became flesh should redeem fallen humankind through his sacrifice on the cross!

True, in our day-to-day experience there are persons or occasions that deserve recognition. As the apostle Paul says, “Honor to whom honor is due.” We celebrate the achievement of our children in many ways as they grow to adulthood. We have many national memorials that recognize the sacrifice of those who have given their lives in the service of their country. And, yes, we may even sound somewhat delirious when the home team wins a football or basketball game.

But over and above our earthly celebrations is the majestic glory of God who was in Christ Jesus reconciling the world to himself. As much as we may enjoy receiving an achievement plaque, its significance is lost in the brightness of God”s glory.

Coming to the Lord”s table is a reminder that our ultimate citizenship is in Heaven and that “we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body” (Philippians 3:20, 21). Talk about glory! Glory to God in the highest who is still at work in his creation transforming us as his body, the church!

And now as we prepare to eat the bread, we are reminded of our participation in his body. And as we drink the cup, we can sing in our hearts, “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise” (Revelation 5:12).

 

C. Robert Wetzel is chancellor at Emmanuel Christian Seminary, Johnson City, Tennessee.