Holy Communion--For the Forgiveness of Sins

Week 6 Lenten Devotions

Lent Day 32: Thursday March 25

Theme for the Week: Holy Communion—Bread for the Journey

Passage for the Day: Matthew 26:26-28

²⁶ While they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” ²⁷ Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; ²⁸ for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

Reflection:

As we near the end of Lent and approach Holy Week, this passage takes on a special significance. Matthew records this event as occurring during the last meal that Jesus shares with his disciples before being condemned to die on the cross. The remembrance of this event, along with Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet are at the heart of the celebration of the Maundy Thursday service in my faith tradition. Jesus shares a meal—the simple unleavened bread and wine of a Passover celebration with the disciples. In the course of blessing the meal, Jesus tells the disciples that the bread and wine are his body and blood. The wine is the blood of the covenant that God makes with God’s people, promising forgiveness of sins.

Matthew uses many of the same words to record this scene, as does Mark. Matthew likely had access to Mark’s Gospel when he was writing his own. However, unlike Mark, Matthew places an emphasis on the forgiveness of sins which is promised in Jesus’ blood.

Each time we gather for Holy Communion, Christ is with us, in and under the bread and wine. In Christ’s presence, forgiveness of sins is granted. When we gather, we remember Christ and the covenant that God made with Jesus’ blood. When we gather and celebrate Holy Communion together, God forgives our sins.

Prayer Themes:

Thank God for the forgiveness of sins given to us in Jesus’ name. Thank God for the opportunities to gather and celebrate Holy Communion together. Pray that I might remember what Jesus has sacrificed for me. Pray for those who do not yet know the joy of participating in Holy Communion. Pray for those who are preparing for to receive Communion for the first time.