While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body." Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father's kingdom." (Matthew 26:26-29 - Holman Christian Standard Bible)
In a few hours Jesus would be arrested, unjustly tried, and executed like a criminal; these were some of His last moments with His disciples. They had just finished the Jewish Passover meal — one of the most special times of the year — when Jesus took some bread and wine and created a new tradition… the Lord’s Supper. When He said “this is My body” and “this is My blood” the disciples did not understand the significance of those words. They had just celebrated the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery which made way for them to take possession of the Promised Land, but had no idea that they were sitting at the table with the real Passover Lamb that would change the world forever.
The Lord’s Supper is one of the most important traditions of the church, and a means of ensuring our spiritual health. Jesus told us to periodically celebrate it because it is a reminder of the central belief of our faith — Jesus’ death for our sins, curses, and sicknesses — and because it is a time to reflect on the state of our spiritual life. If we do not use this time to be totally honest about our faith and obedience to God, it is reduced to a meaningless ceremony.
In Ephesians 6, the passage about the armor of God, the Gospel is mentioned as a piece of armor — “and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace.” When we understand the ramifications of what Jesus did on the cross, we are confident of our salvation, have authority to fight the devil, have peace with God, and have hope for the future. Many know the story — the facts — and may even wear a cross around their neck, but do not see any real difference in their lives because of this knowledge. We cannot be content with this.
The Lord’s Supper is a profound, life-changing ceremony that keeps us focused on what is most important in life. Look forward to it, and be serious any time you participate in it.
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