Matthew 26: 26-28 "As they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread and asked God's blessing on it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, 'Take it and eat it, for this is my body.' And he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them and said, 'Each of you drink from it, for this is my blood, which seals the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out to forgive the sins of many.'"
This passage records the very first communion. Jesus takes a loaf of bread and a glass of wine and tells his followers that these elements represent his body and blood which will be shed for the sins of many. He tells his disciples to eat this bread and drink this wine when they come together to remember his sacrifice for them. This was to be a lasting tradition until he returns again.
I forget things very easily. Pin numbers, pass words, names, birthdays, and sometimes even my anniversary elude me. That is the human condition though. We forget things all the time. We are forgetful people. Jesus knew this. He knew we are prone to forget so he institutes this celebration we call communion. He wants us to not forget about him but instead remember him and remember his sacrifice. How can I remember him today? How can I celebrate the day Jesus died on a cross and bore my sin and shame? I need to remember him more often than at an occasional communion service at church once in awhile! I daily need to think of his great love for me.
Dear Jesus, thank you for dying in my place. Amen.
