One of the strong and appealing affirmations of being United Methodist is the invitation I am privileged to give each time we celebrate Holy Communion. It is the invitation to an open table. The communion table does not belong to us – it is the Lord’s Table and the Lord’s Supper that we share. All who desire to know the forgiveness, love, mercy, and salvation that come in Christ Jesus are welcome.
It is an understanding of Holy Communion as both a confirming and a converting ordinance that leads United Methodists today to practice an open Communion. All who desire to live and lead a Christian life, regardless of age, ability, or denomination, are invited to the Lord’s table for the holy meal (The Meaning of Holy Communion in The United Methodist Church, 23).
Another part of the invitation is to speak about who we are or what we bring to the Lord’s Table. A lot may be going on for us in the celebration of Holy Communion. In the New Testament, at least six major ideas about Holy Communion are present: thanksgiving, fellowship, remembrance, sacrifice, action of the Holy Spirit, and eschatology (This Holy Mystery, 8).
So, coming to the Lord’s Table may be an experience of:
CONFIRMATION – Your walk with God is strong and time in the Word is enlightening. You come to the Table saying, “Yes.”
CONVERSION/CONFESSION – John Wesley called open communion a “converting ordinance.” You come to the Table saying, “It’s time to change.”
CONFUSION – God’s grace or personal events have called into question beliefs or perspectives you hold. You come to the Table saying, “I need help understanding.”
CONCERN – There is a burden on your heart or distress in your soul. You come to the Table saying, “I need resolution, relief, or peace.”
CURIOSITY – There is a desire to pursue knowledge, wisdom, or a deeper experience of grace. You come to the Table saying, “Show me more.”
As a means of grace, Holy Communion is a vital part of knowing God’s love no matter our condition. It gives all of us the opportunity to receive what God most wants to give us for faithful and fruitful lives in our part of God’s world.
See also An open table: How United Methodists understand communion.