For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night which he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks , he broke it, and said, "This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." In the same way also the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me" (I Corinthians 11:23-25 emphasis mine).
Eucharist is not usually associated with the Lord's Supper, but it should be one of the most often used titles of the memorial by which we remember the greatest sacrifice made on our behalf. In the original language Eucharist means thanksgiving. In this scripture the verb for of Eucharist is used revealing to us that Jesus had an attitude of gratitude throughout the most difficult of his times on this earth. Jesus knew well that the time of his humiliation, torture and death was very near and yet he gave thanks as he instituted this memorial. Since Jesus is our example, it is obvious that we too should be thankful even when we are facing the most difficult times of our lives.
What benefits Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection have given us ought to inspire us to praise and thanksgiving! These benefits were poured out on both sides of the cross, both before and after, and therefore, these words from Psalms 103: 1-5 are appropriate: Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the Pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Call the Lord's Supper, Eucharist, because not only does it mean thanksgiving, but because of what Jesus has done for us, there is so much for which to give thanks!
Our Father's Love,
Tom
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