In what ways can we prepare our hearts for communion today? Preparing the Table: Matthew 26:17 “On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?’” (Matthew 26:17) Why Preparation Still Matters • Jesus required intentional readiness before the first Lord’s Supper, underscoring that communion is never casual. • Paul echoes this: “Each one must examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup” (1 Corinthians 11:28–29). • The original Passover demanded the house be swept clean of leaven (Exodus 12:15); today, we sweep our hearts clean of sin. Steps to Prepare Our Hearts • Examine yourself in prayerful openness – Ask the Spirit to reveal hidden attitudes: “Search me, O God… see if there is any offensive way in me” (Psalm 139:23–24). • Confess and receive cleansing – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9). – Draw near “having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience” (Hebrews 10:22). • Forgive and reconcile – “Be kind and tenderhearted… forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). – Jesus warns of judgment when we partake “without recognizing the body” (1 Corinthians 11:29); unresolved bitterness clouds that recognition. • Remember the cost of the covenant – “This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28). – Let gratitude replace routine by lingering on His sacrificial love. • Anticipate future fellowship – Jesus promised He will drink the cup anew in His Father’s kingdom (Matthew 26:29). Communion looks back to the cross and forward to the wedding feast of the Lamb. • Engage mind and body reverently – Arrive rested and unhurried. – Read the Passion narratives beforehand (Matthew 26–27; John 13–19). – Sing or meditate on hymns that center on the cross. Living Out Preparedness Between Services • Keep short accounts with God—confession should be daily, not monthly. • Nurture unity within the local body through humble service (John 13:14–15). • Walk in ongoing obedience; communion is fuel for discipleship, not a substitute for it. Following these biblical patterns keeps the heart swept, set, and ready each time we break the bread and lift the cup. |
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