The disciples would have been very familiar with the Passover meal. But as the night unfolds, Jesus does something extraordinary; he takes the familiar symbols and words and makes them about him! This is phenomenal! It would be like whoever is leading the Lord’s Supper at a church gathering, to change the words to say that they are the ultimate fulfilment of this meal. But of course whilst if someone did that today it would be false, Jesus is showing the disciples something amazing. Jesus is showing us, in this meal that had been celebrated for centuries - as the Lord had commanded - to recall their rescue out of Egypt (cf. Exodus 12), that his death makes possible the ultimate rescue from sin and death. That his body will be broken for us, in order that we might live.

When Jesus takes the cup and says this is, “my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins”, he is saying that the ultimate promises of God are being fulfilled through the giving of his life. People would no longer have to approach God through sacrifices over-and-over again, but Jesus would become for us the ultimate sacrifice in order that we would be acceptable in his eyes (cf. Romans 3:21-24). Jesus is opening up a way that the problems of our sin can be dealt with once-and-for-all. How do we connect with this extraordinary gift of grace? Simply by accepting what Jesus has done for us and trusting in him as Lord. That’s what we should be reminded of every single time we share in the Lord’s Supper: looking back with great thanks to God for what Jesus has done; looking forward with great anticipation of his return.

Jesus’ death wasn’t defeat, but the greatest victory for all humankind. AL

Questions

Do you find anything surprising about this event? What do the bread and wine at the Lord’s Supper symbolise? Why was it necessary for Christ’s blood to be shed in order that forgiveness could be won?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you so much for your faithfulness and that through Jesus we can be confident of forgiveness. Thank you that Jesus was willing to go to the cross. Please help us to accept his sacrifice and trust in him. Amen