For Me?

The scene--a surprise party. You are the honoree. All your friends and family and business associates are there. They yell, "Surprise!" and blow noise makers and applaud. Then they wheel in a cake and bring you a present.

You say...
1. About time!
2. Only one present?
3. I don't like buttercreme!
4. For me?!?

Hopefully you answered number 4. It's a traditional response. It's humble and modest. Unless you're just saying it. Unless you mean, "For me? (Of course it's for me--I deserve it!)" Then it's a put on. It's haughty. It's phony.

Next scene--you're at worship. Some of your friends and family and some of your business associates are there. They yell, "Alleluia!" and ring bells. Then the pastor breaks the bread pours the wine gives thanks and you go forward. You are handed a piece of bread and a drink of wine.

You say...
1. For me?
2. Amen
3. Thank you
4. I don't like those wafers!

Actually, all but 4 this time. (Albeit those wafers are pretty cardboard-y!) "Amen" is traditional. "Thank you" is polite. But i really think "for me?" used rightly, is an acceptable thing to say as well.

In Peter's first big sermon after the miracle of Pentecost, he says this: "For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all those who are far away, everyone whom the Lord God calls to him." (Acts 2:39) It's pretty clear that forgiveness and new life are for you, no matter how unacceptable or undeserving you may be.

So in saying ""for me?" we are acknowledging the depth of God's mercy--the gift of his grace, and our own unworthiness--yet worthiness--to receive God in such a manner. The body and blood of Christ given and shed--for you! (For me?) Yes, for you!

Amen! Thank you!