Apple Cider Communion

The landscape of rural Virginia is littered with wineries. Stop in and have a taste! And so I did. It turned out to be a large apple orchard with a couple of small buildings where the thirsty traveler could purchase sample tastes of cider products. Who am I to disappoint these good people who care for the luscious apples and produce the nectar. I sampled.

It was like drinking the sweetness of the earth. Apple ladened trees stretched as far as the eye could see across the rolling hillsides. Warm sun, gentle breeze, and the sweet taste of freshly made cider. How fortunate I am. I should be grateful for a moment like this. I should remember the suffering and struggle most of the world endures while I sip cider. I do. I do.

And so, Living Spirit, let something like this cup of cider not only quench my thirst, but let it be a reminder of life on this earth, life that is filled with moments of joy and moments of disappointment and sadness. The earth is yours, Generous God, and it produces bounties of many things. May we who inhabit this floating home recognize not only tastes of sweetness but also our responsibilities to foster peace, justice, and mercy everywhere and for everyone. This is none other than the cup of salvation. I lift it to you, Lord, to honor and to hope. I lift it to You as a sign of my commitment to Your Kingdom of kindness.

May it be so. Amen.