Read Luke 22:7-23
And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” – Luke 22:19-20
On Maundy Thursday we remember the Last Supper Jesus had with his disciples before he was arrested. Today we continue to practice the symbolism Jesus carried out with his disciples by breaking bread and drinking wine (or juice) during communion. There are three things we can do to be sure that communion does not become a meaningless, religious activity so that we can come to the table with joy and reverence.
First, we can take this time to remember what Jesus has already done for us and give thanks. “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” Jesus sacrificed his body for us so that we could be reunited with our creator. As you eat the bread, take time to remember all that Jesus has already done for you.
Second, as you drink the juice that symbolizes Christ’s blood focus on what this means for us as believers in Jesus. “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” Jesus has provided a new covenant or promise for us. He is the last and ultimate sacrifice. His blood has washed away ALL of our sin, past, present and future.
Third, speaking of sin, if there is some sin that God has made you aware of that is causing strain in your relationship with Him or causing you to distance yourself from Him; communion is a time to be honest with God. Confess you sin, ask God for forgiveness and ask for help in freeing yourself from this sin. In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. Ephesians 3:12 God knows it all, we can approach him with our deepest, darkest sin and it won’t surprise Him. Before you take communion, take time to confess your sin and accept the love and forgiveness God has given you through Jesus.
Because of Jesus and the sacrifice of His body and His blood for us, we can approach God with freedom and confidence. The next time you take communion take time to remember, give thanks, and confess honestly so that you can commune with Jesus just as His disciples did during the Last Supper.
Questions to consider…
- Why do you think it’s important to continue practicing communion in the church?
- Take a few moments to consider what your life was like before a relationship with Jesus and what your life may look like today if you didn’t have a relationship with Jesus.
- Take time to thank God for the ultimate sacrifice of His Son and make a list of things you are grateful for today.
- Ask God to reveal sin in your life that may be holding you back from all the blessings He wants for you. Confess these sins and any other sins you are already aware of with boldness and honesty. Feel his forgiveness and love for you!
