What is the benefit of such eating and drinking?
That is shown us in these words: Given, and shed for you,
for the remission of sins; namely, that in the Sacrament forgiveness of sins,
life, and salvation are given us through these words. For where there is
forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.
These words tell us that in the
Sacrament Christ offers and assures to every communicant forgiveness of all his
sins. As a seal and pledge of this offer He gives him under the bread and wine
the very body and blood with which He earned this forgiveness for him.
This Supper is indeed a means of grace, in which God deals
with each person individually to assure him personally of the forgiveness of
all his sins. We do not go to Communion to earn favor with God, but to receive
from Him blessings and benefits for ourselves.
Blessed Savior, Jesus
Christ, You have given Yourself to us in this holy Sacrament. Keep us in Your
faith and favor that we may live in You even as You live in us. May Your body
and blood preserve us in the true faith to life everlasting. Hear us for the
sake of Your name.
Collect for right reception of the Lord’s Supper, Lutheran
Service Book © 2008 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
Julius Schnoor von Carolsfeld ©WELS
No comments:
Post a Comment