Sunday of the Passion- The Small Catechism- The Sacrament of the Altar (cont'd)

"Who, then receives this sacrament worthily?"

This has always been a troubling question for me, and, I think, for the Christian church throughout the ages.  On the one hand, it's simple.  Luther says, "a person who has faith in these words, 'given for you' and 'shed for you for the forgiveness of sin', is really worthy and well prepared."  So, that's all there is to it.  Have faith.  Trust the words "for you."  And that really is how I see it.  But, on the other hand, some who read this may be old enough to remember having to go and "register" with the pastor the night before receiving communion.  I remember having to turn in a card as I went forward, assenting to the fact I believed in the true body and blood of Christ in the sacrament.  Still today, there are churches that won't allow visitors who are not of their denomination,  who may not understand their doctrine on communion, to receive the sacrament.  How can this be?  Well, the intentions may be good.  No one should take the sacrament in an unworthy manner.  Paul says this in 1 Corinthians 11.  ^" Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be answerable for the body and blood of the Lord.  Examine yourselves, and only then eat of the bread and drink of the cup.  For all who eat and drink without discerning the body, eat and drink judgment against themselves." (vs. 27-29)  But, who judges this?  What does it mean?  Surely we should not receive the Lord's body and blood in a flippant manner.  But can we ever be worthy enough?  So, I say, come to the table.  It is for everyone.  We come to receive God's forgiveness, love, and grace.  Believing the words "given and shed for you is enough."  It's not about our worthiness or preparation.  Come.