Communion - Literal vs Spiritual

[ManOfWord]

Originally Posted by samp

What does your passover observance entail?

The one explained in the DVD, "Zola Levitt Presents The Miracle of Passover," is done in a family setting. Anything containing leaven is removed from the house - bread, cereal, cake, cookies, etc. All the old dishes are removed, and only new dishes are used for the meal. The bread that is used is matzah (which is unleavened of course), and it's in the form of a large square. The matzah is covered in stripes and holes - the stripes represent the lashes that Jesus received, and the holes represent his flesh being pierced. The matzah is symbolically broken by the father (or whomever is leading the ceremony). A prayer is read by the youngest boy that asks "why is this night different from all other nights? On all other nights we eat leavened or unleavened bread, but on this night, only unleavened, etc, etc."

There is also a symbolic act of pouring or sprinkling wine (grape juice or dealcoholized wine can be used) onto a plate, which is special because it parallels Christ's blood being shed on the cross. A female lights the candles, because it was a female who brought us the light of the world.

This is the best that I can explain the Seder celebration, because I am just beginning to learn about it myself. My movitation for observing it is not so much biblical imitation as having a family celebration that is rich in Biblical imagery. It can also search as a useful teaching tool.

I have done this both in my home when my children were smaller (they have never forgotten it) and in our church. The symbolism of the juice and cracker pales in comparison to a Passover meal. In the past, I have also used one of Zola's videos to enhance my teaching on the Passover. I may do so again. It is a powerful experience. Especially when the "bitter herbs" are partaken of and everyone's has tears to remember the bitter tears of bondage in Egypt and also sin. It is powerful teaching, indeed!