by Kendra Menken, Grade 11
Passage: Matthew 26:17 to 30
“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Matthew 26:28
The Last Supper is known as the final meal that Jesus shared with his disciples before being arrested. It is recorded in all four gospels and has been used to establish Communion, celebrated in ChrisMan churches as an act of remembrance of what Jesus did for many. The acts of breaking bread and drinking wine symbolize the breaking of Jesus’ body and the shedding of blood on our behalf so that we might be saved through Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection.
Throughout Jesus’ ministry he showed countless examples of his love for us, including the washing of the disciples feet just before the Last Supper. Jesus humbled himself towards each of his disciples, even Judas, the one who Jesus knew would betray him. Jesus shows unconditional love through this act of service.
Although the washing of the disciples’ feet is a great act of humility, and demonstrates how we are to act, it only shows us a glimpse of Jesus’ unfathomable love. Jesus went to the greatest lengths to show his love for us through an act of service that the Lord’s Supper encourages us to remember: Jesus died on the cross for our sins.
As followers of Christ, we are called to serve with humble and servant hearts in the light of God’s Word and to take the Lord’s Supper as an act of obedience and remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.
Prayer
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for always loving us immeasurably. You sacrificed yourself to cleanse us of our sins. I pray that as each of us go
about our day, we can remember your sacrifice and follow your example in the ways we treat others.
Amen