Should I take Communion?
Should I take Communion? I was raised and confirmed with WELS, but I had sex before marriage recently and I feel awful. I'm incredibly guilty and worried and I don't want to do it again, but I know if I continue dating this person it will happen again. I'm waiting to break up with this person because it's his birthday. I don't want to hurt myself by taking Communion without the intention of turning away from this negative relationship.
It is impenitent sinners who need to distance themselves from the Lord’s Supper until their hearts are changed. Penitent sinners like you and I are welcome guests.
What I see in your words is the cry of a child of God: “God, have mercy on me, a sinner” (Luke 18:13). That call for help does not fall on deaf ears. The Bible says: “If we confess our sins, [God] is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
Friend, through his gospel in word and sacrament God offers and gives you forgiveness of sins. Through that same gospel in word and sacrament God strengthens your faith and fortifies you for more faithful Christian living. For those reasons—and with a faith-filled, penitent heart—be a guest again at the Lord’s Supper.
And then armed with the power of God and the motive of thanksgiving, resolve to say “no” to sin in the future (Titus 2:12). If ending the relationship you are in would be beneficial to your faith—and you acknowledge that to be the case—then you do well to follow through on that.
Finally, let me remind you of the resource that is available in Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal. On page 156 there is information on “Personal Preparation for Holy Communion.” You might find new meaning in the questions and answers there that address the subjects of confession, forgiveness, the Lord’s Supper and Christian living. I encourage you to read through that information at home or in church to help prepare to be a guest at the Lord’s Supper. God bless you!