Strength for the Weak

We’ve considered the nature of this world this morning. God created all things both visible and invisible, and we live in a world that obeys its Creator. There is no such thing as “natural laws.” Those are just descriptions of how God usually runs things. But this means that the spiritual and material are intimately connected. Therefore it should not surprise us that God does the same thing here. If the whole world is enchanted, why would we be surprised to find out that here at the center of the world is a meal that Jesus has given to us to feed us spiritually. This is not really different from the rest of the world. All actions and words are more than they seem. But here we are told what our words and actions mean. As we eat this bread with thanksgiving and drink this wine with thanksgiving, God promises to feed us with the life of Jesus, to feed us with his flesh and blood. Our response should not be to try to do the physics; that’s the Darwinian, materialistic response. Our response should be thanksgiving and faith. The Lord of the universe is giving himself to you here and now. The Lord who crushed the head of the dragon, the Lord who does battle on our behalf is strengthening us for battle here and now. You are the hosts of the King; so come and eat and drink with him that you may go forth and conquer. But this means that this meal is for people who are not strong; this meal is for people who know they have failed. If you’ve messed up then you qualify. If you have not fought sin and wickedness faithfully, then this meal is for you. This meal is not for people who think they’re doing pretty good. This meal is for people who need Jesus, people who need his life and strength, people who need his forgiveness. Are you messed up, have you failed? Then come and welcome. Jesus fights for you.