The Joy of Communion Together // Richard Welsh

Communion is so much more than a tradition! It's a joyful celebration of our connection to God and one another. Discover how building authentic relationships in the church can support you through your hardest moments and bring true joy to your life.--------------------------------------------THE JOY OF COMMUNION TOGETHERJESUS HAD A DEEP, AUTHENTIC LOVE FOR HIS COMMUNITYJohn 13:1 NLTBefore the Passover celebration, Jesus knew that his hour had come to leave this world and return to his Father. He had loved his disciples during his ministry on earth, and now he loved them to the very end.IN HIS HARDEST MOMENT, JESUS REACHED FOR HIS COMMUNITYLuke 22:14-16 NLTWhen the time came, Jesus and the apostles sat down together at the table. Jesus said, “I have been very eager to eat this Passover meal with you before my suffering begins. For I tell you now that I won't eat this meal again until its meaning is fulfilled in the Kingdom of God.”WOULD JESUS SHARE A MEAL WITH ME? (YES!)1 Corinthians 11:27-28 NIVSo then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.REMEMBER HIS GRACE WITH JOYLuke 22:19 NLTHe took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”Acts 2:46 NLTThey worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity.LET’S TAKE COMMUNION TOGETHER WITH JOY1. THE BREAD: JESUS WAS BROKEN SO YOU COULD BE WHOLELuke 22:19 NLTHe took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”2. THE CUP: JESUS WAS PUNISHED SO YOU COULD BE FORGIVENLuke 22:20 NLT "After supper he took another cup of wine and said, 'This cup is the new covenant between God and his people-an agreement confirmed with my blood, which is poured out as a sacrifice for you.'"1 John 1:9 NLT "But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness."--------------------------------------------CONNECT GROUP QUESTIONS:What is one thing that has brought you joy this week?Why is it important to share meals and meet together?Is there something in your life you want Jesus to heal?How does it feel to know Jesus has forgiven your mistakes?What is one thing you are looking forward to right now?--------------------------------------------Connect with us:Web: mylifehouse.comInstagram: instagram.com/lifehouseglobal/Facebook: facebook.com/lifehouseglobalOther Podcasts:Want to listen to our messages in other languages?Lifehouse Japan (Japanese & English): https://lifehousejapan.captivate.fm/listen Lifehouse Hong Kong (Cantonese & English): https://lifehousehongkong.captivate.fm/listen