Some of the most repeated words in Scripture begin this way: “Our Lord Jesus Christ on the night in which he was betrayed took bread . . .” Millions of Christians hear these words every Sunday. They are the account of the Last Supper of Jesus which we remember particularly today.  

In his Small Catechism, Martin Luther emphasizes seven words. “A person is truly worthy and well prepared who believes these words: ‘for you’ and ‘for the forgiveness of sins.’” I can recall a good deal being said about the forgiveness of sins in connection with the sacrament, but much less about the simple words “for you.”

I find it striking that in these final hours, Jesus is concerned with others. He is facing betrayal, trial, suffering, and death, yet his final act is directed toward his followers. This is I am doing “for you.”

Those words are also directed to us today. All that Christ did was done for us. This sacrament is given for us for the forgiveness of sins. So great was his love for us that he gave his life for our sake. He undergoes death so that we might have eternal life.

On this Maundy Thursday when we remember the institution of the Lord’s Supper, it would be good to recall all that Christ has done for us. And having recalled his gifts to us, we should consider again how to respond, to think how we might express our thanks.  In the word’s of Paul Gerhardt’s great hymn:*

    What language shall I borrow
    To thank thee dearest friend?

Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne

* Evangelical Lutheran Worship # 351