This Thursday in Holy Week has been called by several names (such as the Thursday before Easter or Holy Thursday), but in the English, the most common name has long been Maundy Thursday, derived from the Latin word mandatum, "command." Although there are several associations for the day, the chief theme is the commemoration of the institution of the Lord's Supper, Holy Communion or the Eucharist.
The Prayer Book epistle for this day is from I Corinthians 11 and contains St. Paul's version of the words of institution of the Lord's Supper. These simple words are at the heart of Christian worship. Theologians have often discussed these words and disputed their exact meaning.. Although sacramental theology is an important topic, the significance of the Eucharist goes beyond academic discussions. In other words, the place of the Lord's Supper in Christian life has more to do with having faith in Jesus, obeying His words and seeking His grace than with human philosophy.
Some simple affirmations seem clear. First, Jesus Himself began and commanded His disciples to continue this sacred meal. Secondly, He related it to His death that was about to take place for human salvation. Thirdly, this commemoration of His death also points to His grace and living presence among His people through the blessed bread and wine. Fourthly, the Sacrament anticipates that Christ will come again in glory.
Thus, the Eucharist is not some meaningless ceremony or vague symbolism. It is a concrete affirmation of Christ's living presence in our midst. In this holy Sacrament, Jesus Christ comes to His people, and through bread and wine, He offers us Himself. In this outward way, He keeps offering us His forgiving and strengthening grace.
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