The Miracle Table: REDISCOVERING THE POWER OF COMMUNION

by Andrew Murray

Take the disciples of Jesus as our example. They had been sat with Jesus at the table when He had given them very clear instructions. “Whenever you meet together break bread, drink wine and remember.” It couldn’t be clearer! But then, three days - get that, just three days later - where do we find them? They are together, but not around the Lord’s Table, but hiding behind locked doors for fear of the Jewish leaders. (John 20:19) How could they so quickly forget? They were gripped with fear and anxiety, they had forgotten all of Jesus’ instructions, given just three days before! Jesus is so gracious. He walked into their prison of fear and gave them a powerful lesson in remembrance: ‘On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After He said this, He showed them His hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.’ (v19-20) In showing them His hands and His side what was He doing? He was reminding them. He was effectively saying, “Have you forgotten already? Remember. Remember how much I love you. Remember that My blood was shed for you. Remember My body was broken for you. How quickly you forget. This is what I did for you. Why are you afraid? You are loved. You are redeemed. Don’t ever forget.” Remember what I did. Remember who I am.