By Rick Chromey
Everybody loves a reunion.
And there”s no better place to observe a good reunion than outside airport security, as various groups congregate and wait for loved ones to arrive.
During the wait, some families huddle quietly while others chatter loudly. A woman inspects makeup and hair. Several check the flight board. A mom and two kids look for their soldier dad, while grandparents anxiously wait on grandchildren. A nervous boyfriend clutches chocolates and fingers a ring, while cheerleaders prepare to welcome a victorious team.
Others wait, as well, but with noticeably less enthusiasm. These individuals seem apathetic, nonchalant, and bored. They read, check phone texts, and sleep. Many others opt to park outside in the cell phone lot. For these folks, the pending reunion is nothing special. It”s just another job. Been there, done that. Let”s get it over with. Familiarity breeds complacency and expedience.
In reality, the expectancy of reunion and the desire to reconnect reveals the heart.
Maybe that”s why Jesus instituted the Lord”s Supper as a weekly reunion for his family. Listen to his words:
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”
Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father”s kingdom” (Matthew 26:26-29).
For Jesus, this meal is about relationship. And for us, every Sunday is “reunion Sunday” until Jesus comes, producing the grandest reunion of all. This begs a few questions: How”s your heart today? Do you eagerly desire to reconnect with Jesus? Do you anticipate this reunion meal or have you grown bored and apathetic?
Reunions are rooted to relationship. Consequently, any energy the connecting parties enjoy is fueled by their desire to reconnect. If we passionately love Jesus, we”ll hunger to congregate and commune with him. On the other hand, if this moment sparks complacency or apathy, it reveals a true heart problem.
As we reunite in this ancient meal, let”s do so with renewed fervor in our God who longs to meet us in this moment.
Welcome home, church.
Rick Chromey is the director of leadership and online training programs for KidZ At Heart, International, Mesa, Arizona.
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