1 Corinthians 11:23-26 - For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

In 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Paul reminds the Corinthian church of what Jesus did on the night he was betrayed. Jesus shared a final meal with his disciples before his death, where he took bread and wine and told his followers to eat and drink them in remembrance of his sacrifice on their behalf. The bread represented Jesus' body that would soon be broken, and the wine represented his blood that would initiate a new covenant between God and man. Paul explains that when we partake of communion, we proclaim and remember Christ's death for us. The Lord's Supper points back to Jesus' suffering on the cross to pay for our sins. But it also points forward to the coming day when believers will feast with Jesus in his Father's kingdom.

The Lord's Supper is such a beautiful gift that Jesus gave his church. More than just a ritual or tradition, communion is a tangible way for us to remember and give thanks for Christ's incredible sacrifice. Whenever I take the bread and cup, I'm reminded of the excruciating pain Jesus willing endured because of his great love for me. I simply can't fathom that kind of selfless love. But communion isn't only about the past. It also causes me to look forward to the glorious day when I'll be able to break bread with Jesus face-to-face. One day, all God's children will gather around his table to feast and fellowship with our Savior forever. What an incredible promise! I can't wait for the day when we proclaim Christ's death no longer, because death will be swallowed up in victory. So the next time you take communion, let your heart swell with gratitude for Jesus' sacrifice. Proclaim his death boldly, knowing he conquered the grave once and for all. And look ahead joyfully to the wedding supper of the Lamb, when we will celebrate for eternity with our risen King!

Lord Jesus, thank you for instituting this holy meal as a way for us to remember your sacrifice. As often as we eat this bread and drink this cup, help us to proclaim your death with gratitude, reflect on your suffering with humility, and look ahead to your return with joy. Remind us through this simple act that you loved us to the point of death. And by your blood, you made a new covenant that offers redemption to all who believe. We long for the day when we will feast with you forever. Come quickly, Lord Jesus! Amen.