Thursday evening we celebrated the wonder of communion, recalling the great price that was paid by Christ to show us the love of the Father and reconcile us to himself. It's always a special event - a night of gratitude and community.
But tonight was really special.
My wife, Laura, was asked to step in and help serve communion with a friend. I sat alone - with hundreds of other Christ-followers, but not with my wife - and sang songs, helping me reflect on the grace of God. I looked around for my wife and spotted her on the far side of the room. I made my way to the line forming at her station.
As I looked into her tearful eyes, my own eyes clouded up. I dipped a piece of bread into the cup she was holding and heard her serve me, "Mark, this is the body of Christ broken for you." This was my "one flesh". My wife of 25 years. My best friend, my lover, my soul mate. And this union between us was made possible by the broken body of Christ. What a price he paid for our relationship.
It was a moment I'll always treasure.
More than that, I want to live aware of that moment, aware of the sacrifice. I really want to love Laura, the way Christ loved the Church. He gave his life for her. I want to live in communion with her every day.
What a special night.
