Throughout Lent, we’ll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Myra Hoffert, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Myra Hoffert.
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Thanks for listening!
Hello! I am Myra Hoffert and welcome to King of Kings’ Lenten Devotions, “Transformed in Christ”
Today is April 14th and this week we are reminded to Follow Jesus to the Cross.
Today’s truth that transforms is: Take the Lord’s Supper to Strengthen Your Faith
Our reading is from Matthew 26.
26 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.”
27 Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is my blood of the[b] covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 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.”
30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
How are we “Transformed in Christ” and shaped to be more like Him?
God knew the power of sacred remembrance. He commanded the annual celebration of Passover to remember and rehearse the deliverance He brought to his people from their bondage in Egypt. Jesus now institutes a new covenant of how God intervenes to bring rescue from another type of slavery, the slavery of sin. He establishes the Lord’s Supper so that in the eating of and drinking of the bread and wine, we would receive a greater promise, the promise of His real presence. The true body and blood of Jesus is received by faith as we take the bread and wine. Let’s remember and experience this once again and every time we celebrate this meal. Jesus was given FOR us that He might live IN us and work THROUGH us!!
Two years ago (pre-COVID), I sat in church focused on things I needed to get done. Pastor began his sermon as I made a mental list of items I needed to pick up at the store on my way home. Milk, bread, potatoes -- I wonder what time my grandson is playing basketball today, I should invite my son and his family over for supper after the game, I could make a pot of chili-- tomato juice, crackers, hamburger.
I think you get the picture. My mind continued planning as I rose and joined the communion line. As Pastor placed the wafer in my hand, he said, "Myra, this is the Lord's body, given for you." I raised my head and looked into Pastor's smiling face as he nodded at me. Returning to my seat, I realized I had not heard Pastor's message and had no memory of the songs we sang. But I heard Pastor call me by name and remind me that Jesus died for my sin. Silently praying, I asked the Lord to forgive my selfishness, to turn my thoughts to Him, to thank Him for dying for my sin. Today, I make every effort to arrive at church before the music begins, so I can quietly ask the Lord to ready my mind, heart and soul to hear His word, His voice and feel His love around me. Join me this Maundy Thursday as Jesus calls us --you and me-- by name-- to come and focus on Him and not on the busy-ness of this world.