Day 5 of our 47-day journey with Jesus to the cross.

Author & Voice: Erick Sostre

At the Last Supper, Jesus takes, blesses, breaks, and gives the bread—revealing that His body and blood are not earned, but freely given as the gift of the new covenant. In this sacred moment, salvation is defined not by human striving, but by divine grace poured out for the forgiveness of sins. This episode invites us to lay down our instinct to achieve God’s favor, receive Christ’s finished work with humility, and rest in the unshakable promise of the coming Kingdom.

Scripture

1. Matthew 26:26-29

Reflection Questions

1. Are you living as receivers of grace, or are you still trying to be earners of favor?
2. Where in your life are you still trying to prove your worthto God or others?

Kid-Friendly Question

1. When someone gives you a present, do you have to pay for it or earn it? How is Jesus giving us His love, like giving us the best present ever?

Spiritual Practice - Sabbath

Today, practice the discipline of receiving God’s grace without trying to earn it. Here’s how:

1. Prepare with humility: With the congregation, this morning when you take the bread and grape juice do it slowly. Come not as one who has earned this moment, but as one who simply receives.
2. Reflect on the giving: Slowly read the passage again. Focus on the word “gave” each time it appears. Jesus gave the bread. Jesus gave the cup. Meditate on this reality.
3. Receive consciously: Take the bread, saying, “Jesus, I receive Your body given for me.” Take the cup saying, “Jesus, I receive Your blood poured out for me.” Don’t rush through this.
4. Rest in the future confidence: Spend time thanking God that becauseof Christ’s finished work, you can rest confidently in your future with Him, even in areas where you don’t yet see the fullness of His work.
5. Practice receiving throughout the day: Each time you eat or drink today, pause briefly to remember that you are a receiver of God’s grace. Let this posture of receiving, rather than earning, shape your Sabbath rest.

For more tools and practical ideas on practicing the Sabbath, visit fielder.org/sabbath.