The Endless Meal

Luke 22:7-20

Though called “the Last Supper” it was truly the beginning.

Luke 22:19-20 And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you….” NIV

Reflecting on my childhood, I recall a large, rectangular, paint by number Last Supper picture that hung on the wall of my grandparents’ home near the kerosene heater my grandfather called “the oil burner.” It warmed their modest living quarters, and kept my grandfather busy monitoring the level of the oil.

 My grandmother patiently followed the number chart, intricately stroking the robe and face of each disciple. I saw the completed painting as a masterpiece. Gazing up at the scene from a mere three feet, my perspective was one of awe, respect, and admiration. I imagined what it would be like to have been at the table sharing bread with Jesus himself.

My observation was one of a young child of God, seeing the surface event rather than the long-standing, symbolic meaning it truly held.

Imagine the perspective of Jesus during this “supper.” Food and drink were not the focus, but instead, the undeserved reward for us, the children of God. The promise of eternal life for the multitudes not even born yet, as he prepared to sacrifice his body and blood.

Communion with other believers is our opportunity to re-enact this historic event. To honorably recognize the sacrifice of the Trinity, and acknowledge the meaning of “given for you” and “poured out for you” is a tremendous privilege. 

May the image of this meal be etched in our minds as not a social event, but the beginning of something new.  A pledge of God’s endless love.  Because we are his children, he will forever nourish us with this “Endless Meal.” 

Read/Listen to Luke 22:7-20