Everytime when I take the elements, it reminded me of what a pastor once said.
"Remember, that the PRICE had already been paid by Jesus. Leave your baggages and walk a new!"
I believe that its hard to fellowship with God if we come to Him still carrying our past baggages not truly realising that these were already taken away long long time ago.
It reminds me as well of God's love - 'But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. - Roman 5:8
Also Roman 8:1-Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus...
Thus, I believe the Body and Blood are figurative. It is an act that reminds us of what Jesus had done for us and we are set free from all condemnation.