While conducting a recent communion service, I casually wondered aloud, “If we might use real wine sometime, just as Jesus did.” As I reflected that morning on the significance of the service, my unspoken thoughts went something like, “We serve grape juice to represent our Savior’s blood, and perhaps wine would be more appropriate since it’s what Jesus and His disciples would have shared during that fateful Passover meal.”
Later I was lovingly and appropriately prompted by people who have struggled with alcoholism; explaining that if we were to use real wine they would have to exclude themselves from that important element of communion. Their recovery and continued sobriety hinges on their promise of total abstinence from alcohol.
I was humbled and embarrassed to realize how thoughtless I was to “ad lib” during this solemn occasion of our Lord’s Supper. I want to apologize for my insensitivity and assure our people that we are now, more than ever, aware of the importance of serving elements that allow every believer to partake without infringing on their consciences. The incredible significance of communion is not determined by the elements, but by the humility of grateful hearts as we share in the wonderful privilege of remembering His blood shed for us and His body broken for our salvation. Thank you for understanding.