The Profound Significance of 'Do This in Remembrance of Me'
In the heart of many churches, a simple yet profound phrase often adorns the communion table: “Do this in remembrance of me.” This command, given by Jesus during the Last Supper, carries a weight of significance that resonates through time, urging believers to reflect on its meaning and implications.
The Deep Roots of Remembrance
Remembrance in Christianity isn't merely about recalling past events; it's about actively engaging with the living legacy of faith. The Bible encourages us to remember not just the acts of God but also the promises and the covenant He has made with His people. This remembrance is not passive but an active participation in the faith journey of those who came before us.
The command from Jesus, found in Luke 22:19-20, is particularly poignant:
“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 the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.’”
This moment during the Passover meal with His disciples signifies a transition from the old covenant to the new. Jesus, by linking His body and blood to the bread and wine, not only fulfills the Passover but also establishes a new ritual for His followers, one that would be observed for generations.
The Legacy of the Last Supper
The Last Supper, where Jesus spoke these words, was part of the Jewish Passover, a festival commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery. The blood of the lamb on the doorposts during the original Passover protected the Israelites from the angel of death, symbolizing God's deliverance. Jesus, by referring to His blood as the new covenant, positions Himself as the ultimate Passover lamb, whose sacrifice liberates humanity from spiritual bondage.
The Universality of the Command
Although the phrase "Do this in remembrance of me" appears only in Luke's Gospel, its importance is echoed throughout the New Testament. Paul, in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, reinforces this command:
“For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is 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; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”
This repetition by Paul underscores that the command was not only known but also deeply ingrained in the early Christian community.
Living Out the Remembrance Today
For contemporary Christians, observing communion is the primary way to fulfill this command. It's a time to:
- Reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus, understanding the depth of His love and the cost of our salvation.
- Recommit to living a life that honors His sacrifice, striving to embody the values He taught.
- Rejoice in the fellowship with other believers, sharing in the common bond of faith.
By partaking in the bread and wine, Christians not only remember the past but also proclaim their faith in the present and their hope for the future return of Christ. This act of remembrance is a living testament to the enduring power of Jesus' words and the transformative impact of His life, death, and resurrection.