| Judges 2:10-3:31; Luke 22:14-34; Psalm 92:1-93:5; Proverbs 14:1-2
Jesus introduces one of our continuing ordinances and also reiterates the operating power of His kingdom, servanthood.
“And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, gave it to them, and said, ‘This is My body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.’ In the same way He also took the cup after supper and said, ‘This cup is the new covenant established by My blood; it is shed for you.'” (Luke 22:19-20) These days, we take some type of cracker and juice, we have a time of reflection and prayer and then eat and drink the cracker and juice. They are just simple little items that are used to remember the greatest act of love.
For some, it may be just a ceremony, but to me it is a time to contemplate where I am spiritually. Am I wholeheartedly following after God, am I struggling with sin, am I harboring anger or bitterness? It’s hard not to address these issues when you think of all that Jesus endured. How he was mocked, spit upon, had his beard pulled, was beaten unmercifully, clothes were taken and gambled for and finally hung on the cross. After all of this He looks down and asks the Father to forgive. When we take that in, how can we possibly hold on to foolishness? Our problems can be so petty when they are put into perspective. So even if I’m not prepared for communion day, it brings my issues to light and compels me to face and conquer them.
It’s so hard to believe that God would send a part of Himself in human form to identify with us and to teach us who He is. Jesus was all God and all man. In His humanity He laid aside all of His royalty in order to experience life as one of us. While here, He taught us about the conquering powers of love and service. When His disciples were arguing about who would be the greatest, He showed them that His kingdom operates on a different plane. Here in this world, the greatest is the one who sits while others serve him, but Jesus said He came as one that served. There is power and humility found in service to others. The person that can conquer his own ego is the one with the most strength. It’s in this meekness we find growth, and others are touched and brought to God.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for Your great sacrifice, it has enabled us to be born again and to enjoy an open relationship with You. I pray that we will all recognize what You have done and not allow the things of this world to overwhelm us. You have given us hope and strength, thank You again for allowing us to know You and for giving us the power and keys we need to live for You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. |
