On
Sunday, July 18, 2010, one of the busiest highways in Europe became what some
called “the longest table in the world.” Officials closed a 60-kilometer
(37-mile) section of the A40 Autobahn in Germany’s Ruhr region so people could
walk and bicycle or sit at one of 20,000 tables set up on the roadway. An
estimated 2 million people came to enjoy an event the director hoped would
connect people from many cultures, generations, and nations.
This
event made me think of an even grander table around which believers gather to
share the Lord’s Supper. During communion, we remember Jesus’ death for us as
we anticipate the culmination of history at His return.
Just
before Jesus was crucified, He shared the Passover meal with His disciples,
telling them, “I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until
that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom” (Matt. 26:29).
The
Lord’s Table unites everyone Christ has redeemed by His blood “out of every
tribe and tongue and people and nation” (Rev. 5:9). One day, in a scene of
reunion and joy, all who belong to Jesus will sit down together with Him at a
table that will dwarf the Autobahn gathering. We joyfully anticipate sharing
that table together!
God’s love creates unity out of
diversity. (RBC)
