Holy Week
For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Many people have on their bucket list trying new food. As Jesus looked to His own death (T-1), He offered new food. But he offered more than food.
In Luke 22:19 Jesus said, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” Notice that Jesus did not say “will be given” but “is given.” This suggests that the process was already taking place. The same is true with His blood which “is shed for many.” As we mentioned yesterday, Jesus was following God’s time-table. His death was already in the works. He would soon be arrested, spend the night in a mock trial, and by the next morning, He would be crucified.
This Passover was more than just His “last meal.” It was His “covenant,” (His last will and testament). Jesus bequeaths “the forgiveness of sins” through this sacrament. It is true that we have forgiveness even without the supper. However the Lord’s Supper offers assurance. It not only is it a personal covenant of forgiveness, placed in your hands and mouth, but it is also a “remembrance.” Every time we commune, we vividly recall Jesus’ passion. It is also a “proclamation.” Our actions confess that we believe that Jesus gave His body and shed His blood for us for the forgiveness of our sins.
Is this for me? I am forgiven and set free! I do believe That I receive
His very body and His blood. O taste and see – the Lord is good.
Worship Supplement 755:5