How can we prepare our hearts for communion, as disciples did for Passover? Reading the Key Verse Mark 14:12 — “On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover lamb was being sacrificed, Jesus’ disciples asked Him, ‘Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?’ ” Looking Back to the Disciples’ Preparation • They honored a divinely appointed time and meal. • They removed all leaven from their homes (Exodus 12:15). • They secured an upper room exactly as the Lord directed (Mark 14:13-16). • They centered everything on the Passover lamb. Principles for Our Communion Preparation • Remove the leaven of sin – Self-examination and repentance (1 Corinthians 11:27-28; 1 John 1:9). – “Cleanse out the old leaven… For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7-8). • Obey the Lord’s instructions promptly – The disciples followed specific directions; we do the same by heeding His Word (John 14:15). • Set apart time and space for meeting with Him – Secure an “upper room” in the heart: eliminate distractions, come early, focus (Revelation 3:20). • Fix your gaze on the Lamb – “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). – Remember the cost of redemption (1 Peter 1:18-19). • Pursue unity with fellow believers – Mend relationships before the table (Matthew 5:23-24; Ephesians 4:32). – Communion is a family meal; discord distorts the picture (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). • Approach with gratitude and expectancy – Jesus said, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you” (Luke 22:15). – Anticipate His real, gracious presence and future banquet (Matthew 26:29). Supporting Scriptures at a Glance Exodus 12; Mark 14:12-16; Luke 22:15-20; 1 Corinthians 5:7-8; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; 1 Corinthians 11:23-32; John 1:29; 1 John 1:9; Revelation 3:20. Putting It All Together By clearing out sin’s leaven, obeying Christ’s word, setting aside undivided time, fixing our hearts on the Lamb, seeking peace with one another, and coming with thankful expectancy, we follow the disciples’ pattern and prepare truly for the Lord’s Table today. |
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