My third suggestion: re-establish a table atmosphere. It’s the table of the Lord. It’s a common meal. It’s communion. Sharing. Time to be aware of the body of the Lord, His gathered body.

Some would say that’s impossible while sitting in pews, but I disagree. I think we have to change some of our ideas about what “decently and in order” means; actually, I know we need to change those ideas. Merely reading that phrase in context will tell you that.

At table, you look at your fellow table participants. You interact with them. Can you imagine someone at a family meal sitting with their head down and eyes closed the entire time? Would you think there was a healthy family relationship there?

We are at table. Together. Let’s look at one another. Smile. Be aware of the covenant bond that joins us. Be aware of the unifying moment we are sharing. The Corinthians missed the boat on this to such an extreme they had to be reprimanded. We speak of gathering around the table; let’s live it.