Holy Communion
Invitation to connect with Jesus
As you settle in to spend time with God today, try to find a quiet space where you won't be interrupted. Silence your phone. Grab your journal and a pen. Sit comfortably with your hands open in a posture that allows you to receive from the Lord.
Take a few slow, deep breaths:
- Breathe in: God's peace
- Breathe out: Any distractions
Opening Prayer: "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening. Open my eyes to see, my ears to hear, and my heart to receive what You want to say to me today."
Today's Scripture Reading
Read today's passage slowly a few times and listen with your heart.
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body." Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom."
Matthew 26:26-29 (NIV)
After reading, pause for a moment and then ask: What word or phrase catches my attention?
Meditation
Read the passage again, slowly, focusing on your word or phrase.
On the night that Jesus was betrayed, He ate His last supper with His disciples. And knowing what He would accomplish through His sacrifice, He instituted the Holy Communion and instructed us to remember Him as we partake of it. Jesus wanted us to understand how His body was broken for our wholeness, and His blood was shed for the forgiveness of our sins. As we partake of the bread, we are declaring that Jesus' health and divine life flows in our mortal bodies. And when we partake of the cup, we are declaring that we are forgiven and have been made right with God.
Take a moment to reflect on these questions.
- Where are you broken and in need of Jesus's healing in your body and soul?
- Is there an area in your life where you struggle with sin and need the supernatural power of the cross to overcome and walk in forgiveness and wholeness?
Conversation with God (Prayer)
Read through the passage one more time, allowing the Scripture to lead you to respond to God in prayer. Open your heart and be honest with Him about what you are experiencing. Talk to Him about what comes to mind, and how He might be inviting you to respond.
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body." Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom."
Matthew 26:26-29 (NIV)
Are you feeling led toward a prayer of praise? Repentance? A plea for help or healing?
Contemplation
Rest in the awareness of God's presence, remaining open to anything else the Holy Spirit might stir in your heart. If your mind wanders, gently redirect your thoughts toward God. Simply be still. Enjoy a moment of fellowship with God that goes deeper than words.
Rest. Breathe. Be.
Closing Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for Your perfect love for me shown at the cross. Thank You for Your body that was broken for me and Your blood shed for me so that I can live forgiven, healed, delivered, and empowered. I remember Your sacrifice as a testimony on my behalf, and I ask that You heal my broken body and my wounded soul. Fill me with Your Spirit and empower me to live according to Your will. Amen.