Communion: Resonance with Jesus

Scripture Reading — 1 Corinthians 11:23-29

Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.
— 1 Corinthians 11:26

“Do this . . . in remembrance of me.” The church of Jesus has been living into these words for nearly 2,000 years. Thinking about our devotional theme for this month, we might say that the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion, is one of the most resonant experiences in the Christian life. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, everything that Jesus accomplished on the cross is available to us. And we receive this gift by faith, putting our trust in him.

The Bible describes this good news in a multitude of ways. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection our sins are forgiven. Our spiritual debt is paid in full. We become citizens of the kingdom of God. We are rescued from death and receive new life now and forever!

Verse 26 of our passage for today makes a remarkable statement. Whenever we come to the Lord’s table in faith to receive the bread and cup that represent his broken body and shed blood, we “proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” Our lives become an announcement of our spiritual victory. Death has been defeated! The grave has been conquered! We are set free!

There is something both mysterious and holy about the Lord’s Supper. Jesus is present with his people as they gather around his table. May our hearts be open to receive him.

Jesus, thank you for the gift of communion, reminding us of your sacrifice on the cross. Fill us with your grace, and help us follow you faithfully till you come again. Amen.

Written by: Kevin DeRaaf