In Remembrance of Me

When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. He said to them, ‘I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.’ Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, ‘Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.’ Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. But see, the one who betrays me is with me, and his hand is on the table. For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined, but woe to that one by whom he is betrayed!’ Then they began to ask one another which one of them it could be who would do this. Luke 22:14-23 

An annual religious holiday and family gathering can be both a joy and a challenge. Jesus and his disciples had celebrated together every year they were together, but this one would be different. That night there would be drama and betrayal, chaos and great pain. The words Jesus spoke to them at table was etched in their memories, as was the horror that would ensue. This last supper for us becomes the renewal of life, the presence of the Divine at our table.

Gracious God you welcomed us

to sit at table with your friends

you promised to be with us all

and told us to remember your sacrifice.

Too often we forget to seek you

regularly we wander far away

and yet you invite us again

to live in remembrance of that night.

Set us free from worry to focus on you

help us to prepare for you every day

strengthen us to joyfully serve others

joining them at you feast of love. Amen.