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Showing posts with label crucifixion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label crucifixion. Show all posts

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Don't Forget!

Jesus' last supper here on earth with His close circle of friends was the Passover meal, a celebration all Jews enjoyed because of its reflection on their freedom from slavery in Egypt. He knew it was the last time He would eat before His suffering.

On the last day for the people on death row, they get to pick whatever they want to eat. For some it's a steak and for others it's ice cream. Jesus had other things on His mind. He instituted our communion service with the twelve. He said of the bread, "This is my body broken for you. Eat this in remembrance of me," and of the wine, "This is my blood poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins." It sounds so formal to me, but I think He meant to say, "Don't forget me! Don't forget why!" He said to His followers, ". . . Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matt. 28:19-20).  He wanted them to tell about the crucifixion, burial and resurrection for they are the power of our faith. Because His followers obeyed, we can know the truth today and have a relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

I would love to see the mural in Dallas, Texas that depicts the resurrection of Jesus by artist, Ron DeCianni. The Son rising from the grave and pushing back the stone, His eyes on the Father. The keys of sin, death and hell on His belt. Because He is victorious, we can trust Him to carry us to where He is. That is our hope. That's what Easter is all about.

This video is a must-see to appreciate the painting that took more than two years' work. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yABivU-AKQ

May God bless your Easter with His love and presence.

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Do This in Remembrance of Me

Jesus was with His closest friends the evening before His betrayal, suffering, and crucifixion. He knew the mockery of hearings, the spitting and ridicule He would endure that night. So while He was with His friends He washed their feet and treasured every moment with them. Although He tried to tell them what was to come, He knew they didn't get it.

I can imagine Jesus saying to them, "Don't forget me. Don't forget why. Don't forget to do this. Don't forget how much I love you. Don't forget that I'll always be with you." He told these things to ordinary men who finally got it, men who would tell others how much Jesus loved them and how much He did to forgive them so they could have eternal life with Him.

Today the words, "Do this in remembrance of Me" took on a deeper meaning for me when I saw Jesus at the table with His friends for the Last Supper. Self-examination penetrated my soul as I heard God's word, humbled myself and surrendered into His presence.

Oh God, forgive me for trying to live my life (again) on my own strength. Open my eyes to see the wonders of You, Your word and presence every day. I love you. Amen.