COMMUNION SUNDAY!
This Sunday we come together around the Lord’s Table as we continue our journey through the book of Galatians. In Galatians 2:11–21, the Apostle Paul reminds us of a truth that sits at the very heart of our faith: we are justified by faith in Jesus Christ alone.
Paul tells the story of confronting Peter—not out of anger, but out of love for the Gospel. The issue wasn’t personal preference or church culture; it was the danger of quietly drifting from grace. Peter’s actions suggested that faith in Christ might not be enough on its own. Paul knew that if the Gospel is compromised, even subtly, the freedom Christ purchased for us is at risk.
That is why Paul declares with such clarity, “A person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ” (Galatians 2:16). Our standing before God is not based on our performance, our background, or our ability to “get it right.” It is based entirely on what Jesus has already done for us at the cross.
As we receive communion together, we are reminded of this powerful truth. The bread and the cup do not celebrate our effort—they proclaim Christ’s finished work. When we come to the table, we are confessing that our hope is not in ourselves, but in the Son of God who loved us and gave Himself for us.
Paul goes on to say, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). Communion is a moment to lay down our striving, our guilt, and our self-reliance, and to once again rest in the grace of Jesus.
With love and gratitude,
Pastor Patrick