Scripture Daily

Context No. 3661 of 4322 · Luke

Context · Reflection

Luke 22:19-23: in context

19He took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body which is given for you. Do this in memory of me.” 20Likewise, he took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. 21But behold, the hand of him who betrays me is with me on the table. 22The Son of Man indeed goes as it has been determined, but woe to that man through whom he is betrayed!” 23They began to question among themselves which of them it was who would do this thing.

At the Last Supper, Jesus gives his disciples the bread and the cup with words that would nourish the church forever: this is my body, given for you; do this in remembrance of me; this cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. He gives himself, his body broken and his blood shed, for them.

And then, in the very same breath, comes the shadow: behold, the hand of him who betrays me is with me on the table. Even as Jesus gives his body and blood for his own, one who shares the meal is about to betray him. It is a stunning picture of grace. Jesus offers himself for all his disciples, including the one he knows will betray him, extending the sign of the new covenant even to the hand at the table that will turn against him. His self-giving love reaches even to those who will fail him. And the disciples, rather than pointing fingers, begin to question which of them it might be, a wise and humble self-searching.

Do I receive the astonishing grace of Christ, who gave his body and blood even knowing our failures, and do I search my own heart rather than pointing at others?

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