I was asked to write for a daily communion challenge, and I was so taken aback by what the Lord revealed to me that I just had to share it with you here, as well…Here is that posting.
As I take daily communion, I cannot escape thinking about its connection to perseverance…
Perseverance seems to be a largely lost art, as in the world, we so desperately cultivate the easy way…but scripture tells us that perseverance is completely necessary…
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4
I want to be complete and mature, lacking nothing. The road to that is perseverance…the same road that Jesus walked as He was on this earth. It was perseverance that gave Him the grace to walk with mercy in the face of mockers and those who tried to prematurely kill Him. It was perseverance that stood within Him that longest of days when He was beaten…and eventually was nailed to the cross. I cannot imagine the suffering of Jesus…I know that allowing myself to be beat beyond recognition, when I knew I could escape at any moment, like Jesus could have…well, the level of perseverance He had is unparalleled.
Communion reminds me that no matter the cost, I will pay it. And the decision to pay it happens now…in the day to day. I will never have the courage in the heat of the moment, if I don’t cultivate that decision daily.
Communion and perseverance…I can’t seem to separate the two.
As one of my devotional readers, I ask if you too will join in on a communion challenge. Set aside the next 30 days and commit to having communion each day. It will be surprising how this practice grounds your heart…and also re-connects you with the greatness of Jesus’ sacrifice.
One thing is certain, we can never thank Him enough. Another thing I’ve noticed is that He is always looking to deepen our connection with Him…but He’s looking for those who are willing.
I am willing, Lord. Lead me deeper into Your heart and teach me what communion is all about. In Jesus’ name, Amen
For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it, and said, “This is My body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.” In the same way also He took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
365 Days in the Presence 