“Behold, days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, not like the covenant which I made with their fathers in the day I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, although I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord. “But this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days,” declares the Lord, “I will put My law within them and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” ( Jeremiah 31:31-33 )
One of the most uncomfortable meals I had was one where business was discussed. I am sure the two people involved meant well, but it seemed to me to be a useless gesture. Emotions were tense, and the differences of opinion were evident. For me, it ruined ever eating in that restaurant again. In fact, when I have occasion to drive by it, I still cringe a bit.
The meal Jesus had with his disciples may have started out that way. Some tempers flared, and Judas stormed out. But Jesus emphasized the love he felt for his disciples and his desire to bring them into everlasting fellowship. Jesus made a covenant with is disciples that he would care for them and nurture them far beyond the time he was on this earth. The Lord’s Supper remembers and celebrates this covenant and reminds the participants that the Lord’s covenant with God’s followers and believers continues on to this day.
In contrast to my experience at the business meal, my experiences of the Lord’s supper have been filled with love, acceptance, and calm. It has always been a healing experience – when I needed healing. And a drawing closer to the people I am with. Our communal remembrance of God’s covenant with each of us has enhanced the experience, and our recognition that God is Lord to all of us strengthens the sacredness of the covenant.
I hope and pray that your experiences with the Lord’s Supper have been joyful and celebratory. Selah!
