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)
