Christ and Communion: Remembering and Anticipating Through the Lord’s Supper
Memories shape us. They transport us to the peaks and valleys of life—reminders of cherished moments, loved ones, and pivotal experiences. Just as a family heirloom like a Cubs World Series pennant or a treasured photo carries sentimental value, the Lord’s Supper serves as a powerful reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and an anticipation of His return.
In Matthew 26:26-29 (NASB 1995), we see Jesus sharing the Passover meal with His disciples. His words carry profound meaning for them—and for us—as He institutes the practice we now know as communion. This sacred moment invites us to reflect on three aspects of our relationship with Christ: our communion with His body, His blood, and His coming Kingdom.
Communion with Christ’s Body
When Jesus said, “Take, eat; this is My body” (Matthew 26:26), His disciples likely felt confusion. After all, Christ’s physical presence was already with them. But in Luke’s account, Jesus adds the directive, “Do this in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:19), giving us insight into His purpose. The bread symbolizes the willing humility of Christ, who took on human form to bridge the gap between humanity and God.
This echoes Paul’s description in Philippians 2:5-8, where Christ humbled Himself, becoming obedient to the point of death. In His incarnation, Christ chose to dwell with us, demonstrating God’s intimate love.
Application: Reflect on the extraordinary truth that Jesus, fully divine, became fully human. As Hebrews 4:15 reminds us, He understands our struggles and weaknesses because He shared in our humanity. Let this reflection lead to gratitude and awe for His closeness.
Communion with Christ’s Blood
In the next verses, Jesus takes the cup, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; for this is My blood of the covenant, which is being poured out for many for forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:27-28). His words echo the Old Testament covenant, where blood symbolized atonement, as seen in Exodus 24:8. However, Christ’s blood is the ultimate fulfillment, providing salvation through His substitutionary atonement.
The blood of Christ accomplishes what no animal sacrifice could: It redeems us (Romans 5:9), cleanses us, and reveals the depth of God’s love (Revelation 1:5). Our sin deserved death, but Christ bore that punishment in our place.
Application: How often do we pause to consider the enormity of Christ’s sacrifice? His blood paid the penalty for our sins—a debt we could never repay. Let this truth stir gratitude and a renewed devotion to Him.
Communion with the Coming of Christ
Finally, Jesus looks to the future: “But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it with you new in My Father’s kingdom” (Matthew 26:29). In this simple statement, Jesus points to His return, reminding us that communion is both a remembrance and a celebration of hope.
Paul echoes this in 1 Corinthians 11:26, urging believers to proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes. The Lord’s Supper is a foretaste of the heavenly banquet we’ll share with Christ (John 14:3), a reminder that our ultimate home is with Him.
Application: As we partake in communion, let us examine our hearts, celebrating both the past and the promise of the future. It’s a moment to align our lives with Christ’s calling and to look forward to the day when we will feast with Him in eternal joy.
Conclusion
The Lord’s Supper is a time to:
1. Reflect on the sacrifice of Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
2. Respond in faith—whether for the first time or as an act of renewed commitment.
3. Look forward with hope to His glorious return.
As we gather at the table, let our hearts overflow with worship and gratitude. May this time of remembrance and anticipation draw us closer to Christ and strengthen our resolve to live for Him each day.