During Holy Week, when we remember Jesus's journey to crucifixion and resurrection, understanding the Lord's Supper takes on special importance.

Drawing from 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, we explore how Jesus transformed the Passover meal into something revolutionary during that final gathering with his disciples. Just as lamb's blood on doorposts once saved the Israelites from death in Egypt, Christ's blood—the ultimate Lamb of God—now saves us from sin's eternal consequences. The bread representing his broken body and the cup symbolizing his blood create tangible reminders of an intangible salvation.

This ordinance operates across time dimensions—looking back at Christ's sacrifice ("I remember that you died in pain so I can live in power"), grounding us in present fellowship with believers, and pointing forward to Christ's triumphant return. Like upgrading from disposable cameras to iPhones, Jesus established a new covenant infinitely superior to the old. Where repeated animal sacrifices once provided temporary atonement, his single perfect sacrifice covers all sin for those who believe.

At communion's heart lies forgiveness—both receiving it through Christ and extending it to others. As Ephesians 4:32 reminds us, we forgive "as God in Christ forgave you." When unforgiveness tempts us (that poisonous mindset where we drink toxins hoping others die), the Lord's Supper reorients our hearts toward the grace we've received.

Whether you call it communion or the Lord's Supper, this sacred practice invites us to remember, rejoice, and recommit ourselves to the One whose body was broken and blood was shed that we might live. Will you approach your next communion with renewed appreciation for what it truly means?

Support the show