A Matter Of Perspective

Let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup.

1 Corinthians 11:28

Countries like England, with a king or queen, have a royal family through which the right to the throne passes. Children born into that family, especially the heir to the throne, live with a unique sense of responsibility. They are not their own persons—they belong, in a sense, to the people whom they serve. Being a member of a royal family creates a definite perspective by which life is viewed and lived.

Christians are members of a royal family—the household of God. We are brothers and sisters (Romans 8:29) of the coming King, Jesus Christ (Revelation 19:16), and thus have a unique perspective on life. That perspective is to be renewed, Scripture says, on a regular basis as we gather for a memorial meal at the Lord’s Table. At the Communion celebration, we remember not only Christ’s death for us but His return as King of kings. What He did and who He is create a perspective that should predict who we are and what we do.

As a member of a royal family, participating in the Lord’s Table is not an option. Make sure you are there regularly to keep your perspective fresh.

The heart preparing for communion should be as a crystal vial filled with clear water in which the least mote of uncleanness will be seen.

ELIZABETH BAYLEY SETON