What personal changes can you make to honor the Lord's Supper more deeply? Scriptural Foundation “For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread,” (1 Corinthians 11:23) Why Personal Change Matters • The Supper originates with Christ Himself—“received from the Lord.” • Because it is His table, our posture toward it must align with His holiness (Leviticus 10:3; 1 Peter 1:15-16). Examine Your Heart Regularly • 1 Corinthians 11:28—“Each one must examine himself…” • Ask the Spirit to reveal hidden motives (Psalm 139:23-24). • Schedule personal reflection before every observance, not merely during it. Confess and Forsake Sin • 1 John 1:9—“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive…” • Turn from recurring sins; don’t treat grace lightly (Romans 6:1-2). • Replace sinful habits with godly ones (Ephesians 4:22-24). Restore Broken Relationships • Matthew 5:23-24—first be reconciled to your brother. • Seek forgiveness where you’ve wronged others. • Refuse bitterness; embrace peace (Hebrews 12:14-15). Renew Reverence • Hebrews 12:28—serve God “with reverence and awe.” • Arrive early, settle your mind, silence devices, center on Christ’s sacrifice. • Dress and behave in ways that communicate respect, not casual indifference. Cultivate Gratitude • Luke 22:19—Jesus “gave thanks” before breaking the bread. • Keep a running list of blessings tied to the cross: redemption, adoption, hope. • Voice thanks aloud during worship songs that precede Communion. Approach the Meal with Unity • 1 Corinthians 10:17—“Because there is one loaf, we who are many are one body.” • Celebrate diversity in Christ; avoid cliques (James 2:1-4). • Encourage others at the table—smile, greet, and include newcomers. Serve Others in Love • John 13:14—after instituting the Supper, Jesus washed feet. • Volunteer to prepare the elements, clean up, or visit shut-ins with Communion. • Practice tangible acts of kindness during the week as overflow from the table. Practical Preparation Checklist □ Set aside unhurried prayer time the night before. □ Read the Passion narratives (Matthew 26-27; Mark 14-15; Luke 22-23; John 18-19). □ Write down areas needing repentance and reconciliation. □ Choose worship music that focuses on the cross. □ Fast or simplify a meal to heighten hunger for Christ (optional, but helpful). □ Plan to participate actively—sing, read, meditate, then partake. Each of these changes deepens honor for the Lord’s Supper, allowing the bread and cup to shape every area of life until He comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). |
    |