Don't Forget To Remember

The Power of Remembrance: Reflecting on Christ's Sacrifice Sermon Link

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to forget the profound truths that anchor our faith. Yet, there's immense power in remembering - especially when it comes to the ultimate sacrifice made on our behalf. Today, let's pause and reflect on the significance of Christ's sacrifice and how it continues to shape our lives and faith.

The story begins long before the cross, in the dusty lands of ancient Egypt. God instructed the Israelites to mark their doorposts with the blood of a lamb, ensuring their protection from the final plague. This wasn't just a random act, it was a foreshadowing of something far greater to come.

Fast forward to a quiet upper room, where Jesus sat with His disciples for what would be their last meal together. Here, He introduced a new covenant, one that would fulfill and supersede the old. With bread and wine, Jesus established a powerful reminder of His impending sacrifice:

"This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me... This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me." (1 Corinthians 11:24-25)

These simple elements carry profound meaning. The bread, representing His body broken for us. The wine, symbolizing His blood shed for the forgiveness of sins. But why is remembering so crucial?

Memory is a divine gift. It allows us to recall God's faithfulness in our past, strengthening our faith for the present and future. When we partake in communion, we're not just going through the motions. We're actively recalling the greatest act of love in history, Jesus Christ, the spotless Lamb of God, laying down His life for us.

John the Baptist's words echo through time: "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29) Jesus became our Passover Lamb, His sacrifice ensuring that death would pass over us, granting us eternal life.

But remembrance isn't just about looking back. It's about allowing that truth to transform how we live today. The apostle Peter reminds us:

"He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed." (1 Peter 2:24)

Christ's sacrifice empowers us to leave behind our old ways, our "leaven" of sin, and embrace a new life of righteousness. It's an invitation to walk in freedom, knowing that our debt has been paid in full.

How do we cultivate this spirit of remembrance in our daily lives? Here are a few practical suggestions:

1. Engage with God's Word: The Bible isn't just a historical document; it's alive and active. Make time to read, study, and meditate on Scripture. Let it shape your thoughts and actions.

2. Practice gratitude: Start each day by thanking God for His blessings, both big and small. Cultivate an attitude of appreciation for Christ's sacrifice.

3. Participate in communion: Whether in a church setting or privately, regularly partake in the Lord's Supper. Use it as a time of reflection and renewal.

4. Share your testimony: Tell others about how Christ has transformed your life. In doing so, you'll reinforce your own faith and potentially impact someone else's.

5. Serve others: Christ's sacrifice was the ultimate act of service. Honor His example by looking for ways to serve those around you.

Remember, the power of Christ's sacrifice isn't limited to a one-time event. It continues to work in our lives, offering forgiveness, healing, and restoration. As the song goes, "There is power, power, wonder-working power in the precious blood of the Lamb."

Let's not forget that this remembrance also points us forward. Jesus said, "Do this... until I come again." We live in the tension between what Christ has already accomplished and the fullness of His kingdom yet to come. Our remembrance fuels our hope and anticipation for that glorious day.

In closing, let's consider a powerful illustration. Imagine a family dinner where a disobedient son is served only bread and water, while his father enjoys a lavish meal. Just when the son thinks he's being punished, the father switches their plates, giving his son the feast he doesn't deserve. This is a picture of God's grace, offering us, through Christ's sacrifice, blessings we could never earn on our own.

Today, wherever you find yourself, know that you're invited to God's table. You don't have to clean yourself up first or prove your worth. Come as you are, receive His forgiveness, and allow the power of remembrance to transform your life.

The invitation is clear: "Come to Jesus while you have time. Come to Jesus, make up your mind. He will make your life brand new, for He will take care of you."

As we go about our week, let's carry this spirit of remembrance with us. Let it infuse our prayers, shape our decisions, and deepen our love for the One who gave everything for us. In remembering Christ's sacrifice, we find the strength, hope, and purpose to face whatever lies ahead.

May we never forget. May we always remember. And in remembering, may we be transformed.