The Last Supper: A Sacrament of Remembrance

By Romina Chevren

“On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?’ He replied, ‘Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, “The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.”’ So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover. When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve."—Matthew 26:17–20 (NIV)

In today’s passage, as the disciples inquire about preparations for the Passover meal, Jesus provides specific instructions, directing them to a particular man's house where they will partake in the sacred feast. This act of obedience underscores the disciples' trust in Jesus' authority and their readiness to follow His guidance without hesitation.

As evening approaches and the disciples gather around the table with Jesus, the atmosphere is thick with anticipation and solemnity. Unbeknownst to them, this will be their final meal together before Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. Yet, amidst the looming darkness, Jesus bestows upon them a precious gift—the sacrament of the Lord's Supper.

Let's transpose this sacred event into a familiar scenario. Imagine you're hosting a dinner party for a cherished group of friends. You've dedicated days to planning the menu, procuring ingredients, and orchestrating every detail to craft an evening of fellowship and celebration. As your guests arrive, their presence fills your home with warmth and laughter, setting the stage for an unforgettable gathering.

Similar to Jesus' meticulous preparations, you've ensured everything is perfect for your dinner party. From setting the table with elegant dinnerware to adorning the space with flickering candles, each element contributes to the inviting ambiance enveloping your home.

Throughout the evening, as conversations flow, you revel in the camaraderie and shared joy. Unbeknownst to you, amidst the laughter and sharing, you're experiencing a semblance of the fellowship that Jesus cherished with His disciples during the Last Supper.

Just as Jesus reclined at the table with His twelve disciples, you find yourself encircled by beloved friends, bound together by love and kinship. Like Jesus, you extend hospitality to those gathered around your table, fostering an environment where all feel welcomed, cherished, and embraced.

As the night draws to a close, you're struck by the sacredness of community, fellowship, and the profound significance of coming together to share meals and forge meaningful connections. Just as Jesus instituted the sacrament of the Lord's Supper during the Last Supper, you recognize the importance of breaking bread together and partaking in the communion of souls.

In the simplicity of hosting a dinner party, you've tasted a fragment of the intimacy and camaraderie Jesus experienced with His disciples during the Last Supper. And as you bid farewell to your guests, your heart brims with gratitude for the gift of friendship and the opportunity to cultivate enduring memories together.

In essence, the fellowship and hospitality that permeated the Last Supper echoes in our everyday gatherings. Just as Jesus gathered with His disciples to share a meal and commune with others, we, too, can experience the joy of fellowship and community as we gather around the table with loved ones. And amidst our revelry and conviviality, may we pause to honor the sacredness of communion and the love that unites us as followers of Christ.

Pause: As we reflect on Matthew 26:17–20, may we approach the Lord's table with reverence and awe, recognizing the profound significance of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. May we remember Jesus' sacrificial love, His victory over sin and death, and His promise to return. May our hearts be filled with gratitude and praise as we partake of the bread and wine, celebrating the unending grace and mercy of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Practice: Write down your thoughts on what it means to be obedient to God’s direction in your life. Reflect on any recent experiences where you felt led by God and how you responded.

Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for the gift of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, where we remember Your sacrificial love and the redemption it brings. Help us approach Your table with reverence and gratitude, reflecting on the depth of Your love and the hope we have in You. May our hearts be filled with joy and thanksgiving as we partake of the bread and wine, proclaiming Your death until You come again. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.