We Come To Your Table: Essentials Red, Final Project

For The Institute of Contemporary and Emerging Worship Studies, St. Stephen’s University, Essentials Red Online Worship History Course with Dan Wilt.

Over the past five weeks, my eyes have been opened by a study of worship history. Our survey of worship languages has strengthened my spiritual foundation and sparked ideas to bring new life and strength to my worship. One worship language of particular interest to me was that of sacred acts, specifically Baptism and Eucharist.

Eucharist (or Communion, or the Lord’s Supper) was always an important part of my spiritual heritage, and our study gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation for this “sign act.” I grew up in a church where weekly Communion was a central part of the service, and the church I currently attend is rediscovering the significance of returning weekly to the Lord’s table.

Whenever I take the Lord’s Supper, I am reminded of the debt Christ paid for me. I have spent much of my life trying to punish myself for my sins (in the past, physically; still, unfortunately, in my thoughts and self-talk). The bread and wine are a reminder of my Saviour who took the punishment for me. I remember that it is already done. The debt is paid, and there is nothing left for me to do. I am free…wholly and freely forgiven.

This realization always gives me a sense of relief and gratitude, which is a decent starting point for worship. I am learning, though, that God wants more for me. He wants me to rejoice.

I have learned that for early Christians, Communion was a feast, a celebration of the resurrection. It was also a communal act that united Christians. The body of Christ (the church) came together in the sharing of the body of Christ (Communion).

I wanted to write a song for Communion that marked this united celebration. Here is a very rough recording of the results:

And here is PDF with lyrics and chords:

We Come To Your Table

Ephesians 1:5-7