Friday, December 9: 1Corinthians 11- Proclaiming Jesus died.

For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes (26).

Communion, the Eucharist, the Lord’s Supper is our church’s Sacrament remembering Jesus’ death on the cross. When we take the bread and cup we proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

I wonder sometimes why we proclaim Jesus’ death and not His resurrection. Am I the only one who wonders this?

This morning my wonderings came into full view. Why would Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, say this? Because the cross is the defining moment of the Christian faith. On the cross Jesus defeated the enemy, Satan. On the cross Jesus paid the penalty for sin. On the cross Jesus exchanged His righteousness for our filth… He took our sin and granted all who believe in Him His right standing before the Father.

The cross is the great work of God for our salvation and this is what we proclaim whenever we eat the bread and drink the cup.

The resurrection of Jesus vindicates His work, but it is the cross that was the salvation work.

The next time you partake in the table think on these things…consider all Jesus did on Good Friday to secure your pardon and to defeat the enemy, then partake in joy as one forgiven, redeemed, restored and loved.

Thank you for this love, Lord

Thank you for the nail pierced hands

Washed me in Your cleansing flow

Now all I know

Your forgiveness and embrace

 

Worthy is the Lamb

Seated on the throne

Crown You now with many crowns

You reign victorious

 

High and lifted up

Jesus Son of God

The Darling of Heaven crucified

Worthy is the Lamb

Worthy is the Lamb

Amen and amen.

 

(The words of this prayer were written by Darlene Zscheck and published as the Hillsong song ‘Worthy is the Lamb’. 

A tremendous book on the Cross was written by John Stott, The Cross of Christ. An edifying and worthwhile read for all believers in Christ.)