Let us break bread together on our knees | Lyrics
This week we looked at the encounter between the risen Jesus and two travelers on the road to Emmaus, Cleopas and friend. Names would indicate the people were not Israelites, possibly Roman, heading away from the stir of events in Jerusalem with the crucifixion and missing body of Jesus. A resurrection? But where is he? Jesus joins them unrecognized, joins their conversation, and then opens Scripture to them. They are so impressed they invite him to spend the night and commune with them. As Jesus blesses the bread, they recognize him.
One of the most popular communion songs that comes from African American spirituals is Let Us Break Bread Together on Our Knees. Often communion is associated with kneeling at the altar rail on our knees. There are several versions arising from the Gullah/Geechee cultural Heritage area along the East coast between Jacksonville, FL and Willmington, NC. “Oh Lord have mercy on me,” is the Kyrie Eleison, the plea for mercy that comes with our prayers. I am also including a link to Joan Baez sharing how she sang it during Civil Rights. It seems appropriate for our day too!
On the Way to Wonder 