The Communion and the Prophecy of Betrayal

This meditation is based on a passage for July 17, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Matthew 26:26-35

Reflection and Question: Matthew’s placement of the Lord’s Supper alongside the prophecy of Peter’s betrayal puts into stark contrast the trustworthiness of God in Christ and the weakness of human nature in Peter. The gift of Communion, which Jesus offers at that meal with His friends, is given to each of us as we are invited to share the bread and cup. God’s promise in the Eucharist is reliable for every believer. Just as reliable — Christ have mercy — is our falling away in betrayal like Peter. Christian life is the rhythm between these truths. Where are you in this rhythm?

Prayer: Jesus, our Savior, thank You for the covenant of love in the simple eating of bread and wine, offered to us along with Your friends, and that Your love overcomes our frailty, captured so well in Peter’s failures. Forgive us, as You do Him. Amen.