Do you watch “The Chosen” television show yet? The scene depicted in our reading is played out in Season 5, episode 6. How do I know? I just watched this episode in preparation for our Youth Group viewing this week. The Chosen is a great depiction of the life of Jesus. It’s exciting to hear all about how many lives are being changed by God for those watching that series. You can watch it for free in The Chosen app.
The setting was in an upper room. Jesus was gathered with his dearest friends and followers for the Passover meal. This would be Jesus’ last meal with them. Jesus knew what was coming, but the disciples did not fully understand. All these thousands of years later, we still do not fully understand what had to happen with Jesus or the Kingdom of God, where Jesus will again meet us.
Churches around the world celebrate this meal, called Holy Communion, to remember Jesus’ sacrifice for us. In other Bible texts, we see this same story retold, reminding us to remember Jesus by eating this meal. In Luke 22:19, Jesus says, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” Paul quotes Jesus as he teaches in 1 Corinthians 11:25, “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.” You’ll usually hear these words in the telling of Jesus’ last supper during a communion worship service.
It’s very moving to take part in Holy Communion with other believers. In some of the churches my husband pastored, we would kneel at the front of the church as we received the bread and wine, the body and blood of Jesus. In that position, we are truly being obedient to Jesus’ wishes to remember.
Some people find it gruesome to think that we would actually eat this bread and wine, calling it Jesus’ body and blood. It’s what Jesus told us to do. He wanted us to fully realize his sacrifice was for us, given for us. Jesus was the one who chose this form of remembrance, and along with that, a promise. Jesus plans on meeting us in his Father’s Kingdom. How cool is that!
My heart breaks for people who don’t know this story and who have never been given Holy Communion. I’m thanking God for you in this moment as you read these words and digest their meaning for you. Jesus wants you to remember him and gives us access to the Kingdom.
This reading helps us focus on the importance of the coming Kingdom. Jesus gave his life so that we could have a place in that Kingdom. We will one day be able to feast and celebrate with Jesus. He is waiting for us. How does that make you feel? Don’t rush past the grand significance of Jesus’ words and what he has done for you.
Let’s pray. May your kingdom come, oh Lord! Prepare my heart to receive you. Bring to my mind the remembrance of your sacrifice. Your body was given, and your blood was shed for me! I am speechless with gratitude and overflowing with love. May I never forget what you have done for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
