If this meal is not taken in faith it’s not only taken in vain, it’s taken unto damnation. This has led the church at times to put the Supper out of reach. But such actions were evidence of a defective, not excessive, reverence.
While there is nothing holier than the Lord Jesus in His exalted and glorified state, our response to this glory ought not to be to shrink back. He became flesh, died and rose again, in order to draw you unto Himself. The height of His glory should fill us with awe, the sort of awe between a couple on their wedding day.
Jesus calls you to partake of this feast by faith. But many turn this summons into a work of the flesh instead of a gift of grace. They try to summon up a very sanctimonious mood of what they imagine faith should feel like. But Jesus gives us a hint as to how to partake by faith. In effect, He says, “Here’s some bread. Here’s some wine. Take it in your hand. Put it in your mouth. Let it fill your stomach.” As easily as you take hold of and consume these elements is akin to how you must lay hold of Christ by faith. He hands you grace, and you put out your hand. Of course, our hand too is a gift of His grace.
Faith isn’t a final act on our part to get us across the finish line of salvation. Rather, it’s the first act of new-begotten life. Just like your bodily strength is a blessing of physical life, so faith is the blessing which arises from the new life which electing grace effects. So take hold of this bread, and know that with the same ease you might boldly lay hold upon the holiest of all: Jesus Christ our Risen Lord.
So come in faith and welcome to Jesus Christ…
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