Sunday's reading is Matthew 26 vs 17-29
These are some of the most familiar verses in the Bible, repeated weekly in churches around the planet, it is hard not to become over familiar with them.
Here the true purpose of Jesus' life and ministry become clear. Finally the disciples should have understood. Jesus' body would be broken, his blood shed for the forgiveness of sins, and the result would be that his followers would celebrate with Jesus in Heaven.
These words have a massive impact on our lives, on what will happen to us, and on how we should live our lives as a result. We should never grow comfortable with these words. This is where we have to be open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Only the Holy Spirit can present you with a bible passage that you have literally read a thousand times, and present you with a new, deeper understanding of it.
Tim
'become clear' ! The disciples didn't think so. The link from the blood on the cross to the wine in the cup to the covenant and the forgiveness of sins wasn't made by them for at least 2 days. And the confusion of transubstantiation, consubstantiation and symbolism proffered by different Christians suggests we are no clearer on a definitive interpretation.
And I've forgotten one further link; this was a passover meal.
So, while this passage may be foundational in our theology it is far from clear, either from those who are unfamiliar with it, or those who are over familiar with it.
Next, the event, of which this ceremony is to serve as a reminder, is to seal a covenant between God and man. But the content of a covenant was normally clearly laid out and fully known by all parties. That is hardly the case with this new covenant. So, what is Jesus doing here. Is it that Jesus is getting the disciples to think a bit ? He has taught by lecture, story, demonstration and he wants the disciples to put the bits together. Not to present a puzzle but to cause thought, consideration, understanding, appreciation of all aspects of the covenant. So, what are the implications for trekkers ?