While they were eating,
he took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to them, and said,
"Take; this is my body." Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it
to them, and all of them drank from it. He said to them, "This is my blood of the
covenant, which is poured out for many."
Jesus and his close friends, disciples, enjoyed a special meal
together, perhaps the Passover meal. Jesus was on the road to the Cross. This was his Last
Supper with those who would be continuing on their journey, beyond his death. What would
nourish them, strengthen them, renew their faith, and fill them with his love and grace in
all the days to come?
I remember when I left home for college many years ago. The family
gathered at the train station for good-byes. My mother handed me a picnic basket filled
with treats for the long ride ahead. The sandwiches and cookies were good, giving me a
"bit of home" as I began my journey on my own. My mother was sending something
of herself and her love. That helped me venture into the future, with all that was to
come.
Jesus took bread and wine, and gave it to his companion as his own
body, his own blood, to nourish and fill them with his very own love and strength, his
forgiveness and healing grace. I believe that Jesus himself found great meaning and
strength, sharing that meal that evening as he journeyed to the Cross.
Jesus took ordinary foods, bread and wine, and together with his
blessing, gave us holy food for our journeys — for days of hope and gladness, and
days of pain and discouragement as well. Then we are sent to share the food of life and
love to meet the need of those around us. We are fed and blessed to be a blessing in the
world.
Prayer: O gracious and loving God, thank you for the holy meal that
Jesus shared with his friends, the Holy Communion that he shares with us. May this meal
fill us with your grace in our journeys of life, and strengthen us to serve others as
Jesus has served us. Amen.
