Scripture Reflection, May 25: Connections Made to Last

Readings:
Deuteronomy 8: 2-3, 14b-16a
Psalm 147
1 Corinthians 10:16-17
John 6: 51-58

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A group of my friends—all who happen to be women who work in ministry—gather once every month for prayer. These evenings have been times of great fun and insight and have inspired more than one scripture reflection.

We met this past week, and it was clear that change is on the horizon. Several of the members are discerning their next steps in life, and these changes will take some friends to different areas of the country. Transitions of all kinds can be challenging. They force us out of our comfort zones, requiring us to make ourselves vulnerable and adapt to new situations. I am reminded of my times in college and the volunteer corps community. The end of school and my year of service were sad times for me. I knew that I would not be able to enjoy the same level of connection to my friends, and I grieved this loss. At times it was intense and I remember feeling very lonely. If I would have had the understanding of my faith and experience of moving on as I do now, I would have been comforted by the knowledge that God bounds us first by love, not by place.

Traditionally known as Corpus Christi, this Sunday helps us to understand our connections to God and to one another. In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, he asks, “The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ?” It is through the celebration of the Eucharist that we are able to intimately experience God but also reconfirm our commitment to one another. So often we think of our community as our immediate family and friends whom we see regularly. We are missing so many others, billions in fact. Through the Eucharist we remember that we are a part of the Body of Christ, which extends beyond our lines of sight. We might not be able to see our loved ones, but we will remain connected to them through God’s love, which transcends the bounds of time and place.

Spring time marks the time for transition for many people, especially young adults who are completing the school year or even graduating. Connections between friends will have to adapt, but we can take comfort in the fact that the love and support that was nurtured will be remembered and cherished no matter where our life’s journeys take us. We then can continue to share that love with the other people we meet. I guess this is what it means to be participating in the Body of Christ.

By JoEllen Windau