The Foundation of Communion
Communion with God is the heart of the Christian life—a living, dynamic relationship with our heavenly Father made possible through Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:9, "God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord." This fellowship isn't merely doctrinal agreement; it's intimate companionship with the God who loves us deeply and desires to know us personally.
In John 17:3, Jesus defines eternal life itself as communion: "This is eternal life, that they know you the Father, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." The original Greek word for "know" here speaks of experiential, relational knowledge—not mere intellectual understanding. When we enter into communion with God, we experience His presence, His guidance, and His transforming love in the midst of our daily lives.
The Old Testament describes this communion beautifully through the lives of men like Enoch, of whom it is written in Genesis 5:24, "Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him." This simple phrase captures the essence of communion—walking together with God as a friend walks with a friend, sharing life's journey in conscious awareness of His presence.
Deepening Communion Through Practice
Communion with God grows through consistent spiritual disciplines, especially prayer and meditation on Scripture. David, a man after God's own heart, demonstrates this throughout the Psalms. In Psalm 63:1-2, he writes, "O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory." David's longing for God's presence drove him to seek communion through worship and prayer.
The practice of prayer is central to this communion. First Thessalonians 5:17 encourages us to "pray without ceasing," inviting us into constant awareness of God's presence. This doesn't mean we must be on our knees constantly, but rather that our hearts remain turned toward God throughout our days, speaking with Him about our concerns, joys, and struggles. As we confess our sins and experience His forgiveness through Christ, the barriers to communion dissolve, and our fellowship deepens.
Obedience is also essential. In John 14:23, Jesus states, "If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him." Communion flourishes when we align our lives with God's Word and walk in obedience to His revealed will.
Living in Communion Daily
As Canadian believers, we can cultivate communion with God through regular prayer, Bible reading, worship, and community with other believers. Begin each day by deliberately turning your heart toward God, acknowledging His presence, and inviting His guidance. In moments of decision, joy, or struggle, pause to consult Him. Join a Bible study or prayer group where you can share your spiritual journey with others who are also seeking deeper communion with God.
Remember that communion isn't earned through performance; it's a gift freely given through Christ's work on the cross. Come as you are, with your questions and doubts, and experience the God who meets you there with infinite patience and unfailing love.
"Now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." — 1 Corinthians 13:12