Do What Is Good And Right
When you come together, it is not the Lord’s Supper you eat, for as you eat, each of you goes ahead without waiting for anybody else. One remains hungry, another gets drunk. Don’t you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you for this? Certainly not!
-- 1 Corinthians 11:20-22
Several years ago a dear man who had grown up in the church I attended died unexpectedly. Though he was grown with a wife and children, his father and other family members remained in the church.
His funeral service was held in a neighboring town in the church he attended with his wife and children. His body was brought “home” for burial. Our church arranged to feed the family after the graveside service concluded.
As is usually the case at Deep South funerals and feedings, there was ample food. It covered a long line of tables and there was a separate section for all the desserts. The folks in the church wanted to make sure this family knew how much they were loved.
The graveside service was packed with people. Many from our town didn’t attend the funeral service, opting instead to attend the graveside service, while others attended both. The family stayed after the service to greet friends and acquaintances while some of us went back to the church activities building to prepare.
The family sent word that we were to go ahead and eat. I was appalled at the thought. The food, after all, was for the family. But some immediately rushed to begin and others soon followed. You might guess what happened. By the time the family arrived, there was hardly any food left. In fact, two of the church members went to different restaurants to buy extra food. It was embarrassing.
I understand why the family wanted folks to go ahead. They are kind and gracious people. But I couldn’t understand why anyone would accept their offer when the food was never meant for them anyway.
Apparently in the early church, a large meal was served following communion. Some took advantage, eating and drinking in excess, while others went hungry. Paul was upset because such behavior clearly doesn’t demonstrate what the church is all about -- love and caring and sharing.
I likely will never forget the sight of those barren tables that afternoon, the tables that had been so lovingly filled with food meant to feed and comfort a grieving family. Nor will I forget the greed of those who should have done what was right.
