Selfless Love

Jesus' sacrifice on the cross was an act of selfless love for humanity. He gave His sinless life to set us free from the bondage of our own sin.

The Last Supper, which is described in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, took place during the Passover celebration the night before Christ was crucified. It highlighted His love for His disciples, His wisdom as Teacher, His humility as Servant, and His sorrow over the betrayal by Judas.

Although not the traditional Passover meal, “The Last Supper” has often been called a “new Passover.” During this dinner, Jesus instituted a new fellowship meal, which has become an integral part of Christian worship. Celebrated in various denominations, the “Communion” or “Eucharist” elements commemorate Jesus' life and death.

Those sacred symbols encourage partakers to participate in the power of His life and to live as citizens who will join Him one day in His eternal, heavenly Kingdom.

Although the frequency of Communion services may vary by tradition, in every case they provide hope as we await His glorious return.

When Jesus’ disciples followed His request to prepare for this special evening, they were unaware it would be their final one together. As Jesus blessed the bread and the wine, He explained they symbolized His body “broken for you” and His blood “poured out for you.” They did not know the cruelty He would face before He was crucified and nailed to the cross. He was beaten violently and “bruised for our transgression;” his flesh was torn and bleeding. Scripture explains that as the true Passover “Lamb,” none of Jesus’ bones were broken.

The Teacher and Servant focused that night on the symbolism of the bread and wine, the humble act of washing His disciples’ feet, and the warning that one would betray Him.

Have you ever noticed how quiet and thoughtful the atmosphere becomes when the Church offers Holy Communion to its attenders? People sense the presence of the Holy Spirit in this sacred remembrance, as they offer their full focus, attention, and introspection.

In glancing around the sanctuary, one sees many heads bowed in prayer while others seem lost in their thoughts. Before reading the verses from I Corinthians 11:23–27, most pastors and priests invite folks to consider carefully their recent behaviors, mistakes and thoughts, and to ask God’s forgiveness for any behaviors or reactions that didn’t honor Him.

Pause momentarily today and invite God to help you consider your own life, habits, and thought patterns. Then, take a few minutes to thank Him for sacrificing His only Son, so we could have another day to love, serve, and remember the price Jesus paid. Your good, good Father is always ready to meet you right where you are.

Questions for Reflection:

• Where have I fallen short in my walk with Christ?
• How has Christ’s sacrifice on the cross given me all I need to be right with God and live accordingly?
• What will I do today to show thanks and honor to Jesus for laying down His life for me?