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This Sabbath at Park Ridge Church is a very special Sabbath because we have Communion, also known as the Lords supper. Communion is a special occasion where we can show that we belong to Jesus and remember what Jesus did for us. Its a time when we remember and celebrate the death of Christ for all humanity as symbolised through foot-washing (humility and cleansing), the bread (Christs broken body) and the cup (Christs blood shed for us). Before we take part in our communion service this Sabbath, I would like to point out a few things we can do, individually or as a family, to prepare our hearts and minds.

Firstly, Prepare! Prepare by examining your heart. Search for areas in your life that you have followed your own desires rather than Gods way. This involves examining our brokenness as sinners and asking ourselves what are the areas in my life I need to invite God into? The purpose of this examination is not to elevate sin or let the guilt of sin engulf us. Instead, the purpose is for us to see the power of Gods grace in our lives. This involves reflecting on Gods grace to forgive and erase our sins.

Secondly, Reconcile! Take time to reconcile our hearts with God but also with our neighbours. This is a special opportunity to reconcile with those you have sinned against or with those we have wronged. Communion is time for togetherness in the name of Jesus, a time to experience the forgiveness of God in our lives and in return forgive those who have wronged us.

Thirdly, Pause! A big part of communion is remembering and reflecting. Remember the death of Jesus and His promise of everlasting life. You want to spend some time in scripture reading about Jesus sacrifice on the cross. Here are some suggestions: Psalms 22, Isaiah 53, Mark 15:21-29, John 19, 1 Corinthians 15:1-8 or Philippians 2:1-11.

Fourthly, Pray! Pray that communion is a new spiritually blessed experienced for you. Thank God for His goodness, His faithfulness, and His forgiveness. Pray individually or as a family.

Lastly, Partake and Praise! Partake by joining us this Sabbath for the Lords supper, take part in this beautiful ritual of remembering what Jesus has done for us. And then PRAISE. Communion is a joyous celebration. We are not praising a God who is still in the tomb. We are praising a God who conquered the grave and sin. Therefore, praise Him.

I invite you all to join us this Sabbath for communion with prepared hearts and minds.