3-Mar-24 (John 2:13-22)

Sometimes we're so used to a story that we lose the shock or surprise that it had for those who first saw the event.  Jesus clearing the temple was such a surprise to the priests that they said, "What did you see that said you could do this?"
Likewise, the table before us.  The disciples probably thought it would be a normal Passover remembrance, but at the end, Jesus changed it for them and us to remember something else:  his own body and blood, given to break the power of sin and death for us all.
So, as we come to this familiar table, don't let the familiarity cover over the amazing thing that God through Jesus has done for us.
Let us pray.

Prayer:

God, whose grace comes at times and ways we don't expect, we thank you for this table and these symbols of bread and cup that remind us of all Jesus gave to make us whole and free.  As we take the bread and cup, fill us also with your Spirit, that we may truly remember the One who is our host here.  And filled with that Spirit, may we go into our world bringing the amazing story of your grace to the people we meet who are longing to hear it.
In the name of Jesus, our Christ, AMEN