In Remembrance of Christ Susan Ferguson
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 NIV)
I always look forward to celebrating the Lord’s Supper (Communion/Eucharist) at church. As I partook of the bread and grape juice (wine), symbolic of Christ’s body and blood, I prayed that the repetition and familiarity of this sacred ritual would not rob its rich meaning.
The Lord’s Supper is a time to remember Jesus’ sacrificial death and to acknowledge the high cost of our salvation. It is a time to reflect upon Christ’s blood that was shed for our redemption and forgiveness of sin. (Ephesians 1:7) It is also a time to rejoice that Jesus rose from the dead and will return to earth again. Partaking of the Lord’s Supper is a time to examine ourselves and to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any unconfessed sin in our lives. (1 Corinthians 11:28) For me, it is a time to search my heart and evaluate my commitment to Christ. Am I giving Jesus first place in my life? Is there an area of my life that I need to surrender? This solemn, yet glorious time of worship can bring cleansing, healing, and renewed joy.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the Lord’s Supper, a time to remember all that Christ has done for us. Guard this sacred time of worship against routine, lifeless ritual, or absence of meaning. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Today’s freelance writer lives with her husband in Madison, MS, USA. Contact |
