Christian Reflection and Prayer

Scripture:

Read Luke 22:7-20.
TEXT: And He said to them, "I have earnestly desired
to eat this Passover with you before I suffer"
(Luke 22:15).


The day has finally come when the Passover Lamb
must be sacrificed; Jesus' time is drawing near. He
sends Peter and John to make preparations for their
Passover. This memorial feast recalls the night when
God sent His angel of death to kill the firstborn of Egypt.
However, the angel passed over the houses of His people
whose doors were marked with the blood of the Passover
Lamb. By His mighty hand the Lord forced Pharaoh to
free His people Israel.

When evening comes they are reclining at the table.
Jesus tells them how much He has desired to share this
Passover together. He has just a few hours to prepare
His disciples for an ordeal that will shake them to the core.

Everything He says and does points to His sufferings,
which they have been trying so hard to ignore:

"This is the last Passover I will eat with you."

"Take, eat, this is My body, do this in remembrance of
Me."

"This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant
in My blood."

And yet with the sorrow of these words, Jesus institutes
a new feast-a memorial feast far beyond Moses' Passover.
In, with and under the bread He miraculously gives us His
body, which suffered God's wrath in our place. In, with and
under the wine He gives us His blood, poured out in death,
so we might live with Him forever. Forgiven, fed and
nourished with this heavenly meal, we have the full
assurance the angel of death will pass over us on Judgment
Day.

THE PRAYER:

Almighty God, Your Son gave Himself to suffering and death
to satisfy Your wrath at my sins, and to secure my place with
You in heaven. Receive my thanks and praise. In Jesus'
Name I pray. Amen.

(Lutheran Hour Ministries)