1/27/2023

Our scripture this morning is 1 Corinthians‬ ‭11‬:‭23‬-‭26.

For I pass on to you what I received from the Lord himself. On the night when he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and said, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, he took the cup of wine after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant between God and his people—an agreement confirmed with my blood. Do this in remembrance of me as often as you drink it.” For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord’s death until he comes again.

In this passage Paul reminds the Corinthians (and us) about the instructions Jesus gave at the Last Supper. He promised us a new covenant, that we could be forgiven and restored through the sacrifice He made for us. Through this sacrament we are called to remember that we have died to sin through His death and are raised to eternal life with Him.

Different faith traditions have different ways of naming and observing this blessing. It may be called Communion, the Eucharist, the Lord’s Supper, or other terms. It may be served every Sunday, monthly or on special occasions. How we name and celebrate it is not nearly as important as remembering what Jesus has done for us. Paul tells us “For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord’s death until he comes again”. 

18th century preacher and theologian John Wesley urged us to take Communion as often as possible, encouraging fellowship with Christ and one another. Through this we remember His sacrifice for us and recommit ourselves to the call He places on our lives. As long as we gather humbly to eat this meal together, we are one in Him. 

Loving Lord, we are grateful for the gift of our savior, Jesus Christ and the forgiveness You sent through Him. Bless us to go in Your name to share our joy with everyone. Amen.

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