A large upper room, furnished and ready…Jesus took bread, saying, “Take it; this is my body.”…Then Jesus took the cup saying “This is my blood of the new covenant,

 which is poured out for many.”
 (Mark 14:15,22,24)
 

Mark 14:12-16,22-26

This week, we have focused on Jesus' institution of the Holy Eucharist through Mark’s gospel and pondered what Jesus might be saying to us. Some days, our reflections were wordy, others less so, making space for the inner work of the Spirit to lead us.

As we engage in the profound experience of the Holy Eucharist, we may well experience these rhythms. There will be times we partake with much to say to Jesus about what is on our hearts; other times, we come just as we are to receive what the Spirit has for us. As with any relationship, both are times of intimacy. Jesus is always with us, yet there is an opportunity to meet Jesus more focused and uninterruptedly in the Eucharist. 

I would venture to suggest that its deep richness comes from the fact that the Eucharist touches many of our senses, thus opening us to a more intimate encounter with God. Perhaps that is why Jesus sought to explain what was to come using more than words.

Mark’s concise description of the institution of the Holy Eucharist reminds us of the importance of remembering what Jesus has done and continues to do for us.

Jesus carefully guided us to bridge our sinful past with our redeemed, restored present. He taught us to remember with grateful thanks the freedom God offers us through Jesus' sacrificial giving and conquest over death. 

As we bring our week to a close, our last reflection should focus on the fact that God never forgets his people. As we partake in the Holy Eucharist, we are reminded of the liberating presence of Jesus within us as we consume his body and blood. When we leave the church building, we take Jesus with us into the world.  

So once more, we pause and consider the following and enter a conversation with God:

As you receive the Body (bread) and Blood (wine) of Jesus, do you desire to feel the unity of being one with Jesus?

In what ways does the Holy Eucharist touch your various senses? Is there an area within yourself where you would like to experience a more profound oneness with Jesus?

As you leave the Eucharist this week, where would you most like to take Jesus? 
 

Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe

Loving, ever-present God,
may I come to your Eucharist with gratitude and expectation.
I hold what you give of yourself for me, for others, 

for all creation with reverence and awe. 

May I serve you as you deserve with your help 

and in your love. 
Amen.

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