As we come to the table we are separate bodies in separate spaces. As we look at the image we can see separate bodies but they look so similar and they overlap. There are differences, the colour of the faces but they are similar in the lack of features.
Jesus can be seen here standing with his friends, the disciples. He looks like them, they look like him. They are sharing the Passover meal when he instigated what we call the Lord’s Supper, or the Eucharist - which means thanksgiving.
When we share this meal together we are separate bodies that are connected by this meal and put together. There is a togetherness regardless of where we come from. There is a sameness and a union. We are one because we all are part of a common humanity, with Jesus. We are also one because we are at this metaphorical table together and the table encompasses all of us. We are the body of Christ and members of one another.
AN OPEN TABLE
by Sarah Pickering
I am welcome here
We are welcome here
There is room at this table
I am surrounded by souls
As found as I am
And feeling equally lost
We are connected by the giver
to the plates with bread
And cups with wine
We are fed from one table
A table of abundance
Love, spread out before us
Godde, I thank You for feeding us,
I thank You for sustaining us
I thank You for Your unfailing love.
Give thanks to the Giver, for They are good
Their faithful love continues forever.