A Call to an Open Table

Through the ages the Lord's Table has more often than not been an exclusive venue. Denominational traditions have developed theologies that insist on fencing the table, allowing only members in good standing or those who believe the essence of their Eucharistic doctrine. My own tradition was born in many ways out of this debate, and while we also have placed barriers to the Table, ours are perhaps more fluid than others. And this is true despite our making the Table central to our worship.

I discovered this hymn by Kim Fabricus at Faith and Theology. I believe it says what I believe well about the Table. My own understanding of the Table is influenced by Jesus' own Table Fellowship. He was rather indiscriminate in his sharing at the Table, and if he was, then who am I to place barriers? As for Paul's discussion about unworthy eating -- that had everything to do with social barriers erected by church members.

Let's Sing!!!


Let's have a meal, let's have a feast!

A hymn by Kim Fabricius(Tune: Truro)
Let’s have a meal, let’s have a feast!
Come one and all, from great to least:
the food and drink have been prepared,
the Lord provides and all is shared.
Let’s have a meal, let’s have a feast!
This table cannot be policed:
it’s not the church’s, it’s the Lord’s,
it’s spread for free, not for reward.
Let’s have a meal, let’s have a feast!
From “us” and “them” we’ve been released:
no strangers here, for all are friends,
no need to hide, deride, defend.
Let’s have a meal, let’s have a feast!
Join hearts and hands, and pass the peace:
Christ turned the cheek and walked the mile,
now all to each are reconciled.
Let’s have a meal, let’s have a feast!
Let grace abound, let joy increase!
And as we take the bread and wine,
let who we are be re-defined.

Comments

Mike L. said…
Good topic, but I need some help here.

You know I've dabbled lately with the Episcopal church and have looked into the Disciples of Christ church. One big barrier I'm struggling with is the obsessive celebration of this ritual of Eucharist (by whatever name you prefer). I've read many different books supporting the practice, but I still don't get it. It seems devisive and also seems tied to a host of "bad theological conclusions" like substitutionary atonement or its possible ties to 1st century blood rituals in Mithraism common to Paul's home city of Tarsus.

Can you write a post about why it is a valid use of time to focus so much on this ritual?

As always, thanks for your help.
Robert Cornwall said…
Looks like a fun challenge, so I'll work on a response to the question(s). Maybe we'll start a little conversation!

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