“Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said ‘Take, eat; this is my body.’ And He took a cup, and when he had given thanks He gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.’”
Matthew 26:26-28
God’s encouragement…
Each time we observe the Sacrament of the Altar, Jesus is present with us. As we do what He instructs us to do in remembrance of Him—take, eat and drink—we are reminded of the forgiveness of sins, of life and salvation. These gifts are imparted to us through Jesus’ words, coupled with the bread we eat and the wine we drink. In Luther’s Small Catechism, we are told that those who believe Jesus’ words in their heart are worthy to receive the bread and wine.
Jesus instituted this special supper with His disciples at the last Passover celebration of His earthly life. Within hours, Judas would betray Him, Peter would deny Him three times, and all would abandon Him. Jesus knew this and purposefully chose this moment and these circumstances to initiate His new covenant. After this, they sing a hymn and go to the Mount of Olives.
Jesus, who was about to be subjected to the most horrific physical, emotional and spiritual torment mankind could mete out, prays: “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will but as you will.” (Matthew 26:39) The cup did not pass. Jesus gave His body and poured out His blood for many, for the forgiveness of sins. “Many” includes His disciples, His tormentors—Jesus asked His Father to forgive them as He hung on the cross (Luke 23:34)—and us. Jesus tells us why He would do this in John 15:13. He says there is no greater love than for someone to lay down his life for his friends. He lays down His life for us because He loves us and we are His friends. Believe Him! Take, eat and drink in remembrance of Him.
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Image: original oil pastel with filters “Poured Out For Many” by Robin Lybeck
