Paul covers two very important issues facing the church. One is the practice of worship and how we present ourselves to God. The other is about Holy Communion and how that special meal should be treasured and shared seriously and reverently. One focus seems familiar to Christians today, while the other does not.
All the talk about hair for men and women seems awkward, especially in our day when men wear long hair and women wear short hair. And it’s accepted. I’ve never seen a woman, for example, asked not to pray because of her hairstyle or lack of head covering. However, just because I haven’t seen it doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. Especially in churches where the words of Scripture are sacred and unchangeable.
I follow an Orthodox Jewish woman online, and she is very careful to always cover her hair in public out of respect for her faith. She even uses wigs as an appropriate covering. Paul’s teaching was likely based on cultural practices of the region at that time. Women were modest and showed respect for their husbands, and therefore Christ, by not flaunting themselves in public.
We see a much different trend in our society today. Should we be listening to Paul’s counsel to women, or is having long hair all the covering we need? In verse 13, Paul even says, “Judge for yourselves. Is it right for a woman to pray to God in public without covering her head?” This is one of many Biblical questions I can’t answer. It does make me glad that I have long hair! As a takeaway, I’d say that how we approach God, with reverence and awe, is what matters most.
Paul goes on to share his disapproval of all the attitudes of the new believers among themselves. There appear to have been divisions within the church and a disregard for the Lord’s Supper. Church squabbles continue into our day, and, like Paul, I wonder if people are just going through the motions as they take Holy Communion or if they truly remember why Jesus started the practice.
For me, the Lord’s Supper is one of the most intimate moments of worship. It’s a time when we remember what Jesus did for us, and he never wants us to forget him or his sacrifice. Most Christian churches celebrate Holy Communion as part of their worship tradition, although the practice and theological meaning may be different. Paul passes on what he was told by Jesus himself.
Holy Communion is a precious gift. A time to remember. A time to be cleansed and renewed by the body and blood of Jesus. Paul said, “For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord’s death until he comes again.” It’s good for us to keep Jesus’ death at the forefront of our minds so that we can live in a way that pleases God and reflects our thankfulness for his sacrifice. People who don’t believe in Jesus as the only way to the Father will never feel this connection and gratitude.
Paul’s counsel about examining our hearts before we partake in Jesus’ body and blood is spot on. We certainly don’t want to eat and drink God’s judgment in that moment. It’s the perfect opportunity to acknowledge our sinfulness and attempt to make right any offense we have with others. That’s what Christians should be known for—our love and ability to forgive like Jesus. When we get our hearts right, we are taking the necessary steps to empty ourselves of our own selfish desires and stand ready to accept Jesus’ gift of remembrance.
Paul’s words should help us all think more carefully about our posture as we partake in the Lord’s Supper. Our remembrance will be even more meaningful when we come with hearts prepared for the meal.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, I come to you with a humble heart, knowing that I haven’t always been ready to receive your mercy and grace. Forgive me for being caught up in my own world and not present with you. While I don’t understand all Paul was saying about head coverings and hairstyles, I believe what you want most is our devotion, no matter our distractions or excuses. Help me shut out the noise of the world so my focus is only on you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
