Sacrifice
Luke 22:19-20
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.
If you are taking part in the Lent goal to read all of Luke, today read Luke 21-22:23.
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Now incorporated into Christian Eucharistic liturgy, the words we read in today’s passage are familiar to many of us. As a result, it’s almost impossible to capture the sense of overwhelm and uncertainty that likely engulfed the disciples as they heard Jesus speak. What to us are words of comfort and reassurance, at the time evoked fear and confusion. Noticing this difference helps us more fully perceive the sacrifice being made; to recognize the sense of hope and possibility that Jesus had created for his disciples but was now moving on from. Having lived a life dedicated to serving God and healing humankind, Jesus now readied himself to die a death dedicated to serving God and healing humankind. Let us pray today for a deepened sense of gratitude for all that Jesus was and did for us. Out of this act of love, we are offered a renewed relationship with God; we are given the hope and possibility of eternal life.
Redeeming God, kindle within us a deeper appreciation for all You have done for us. Awaken us to a greater awareness of the divide Your love bridges, as You overlook our shortcomings and flawed humanity, to build an ongoing relationship with each one of us. Help us appreciate the hope and possibility that Your love for us brings, in this world and the next. Amen.
