By Doug Redford
The words “in remembrance of me” were spoken by Jesus when he shared the first observance of Communion with his disciples. In 1 Corinthians 11:23-25, Paul tells us that Jesus spoke these words twice: as he broke the bread (representing his body) and as he explained the meaning of the cup (representing his blood). In many church buildings, Jesus’ words are etched on the front of the Communion table.
Consider the two criminals who were crucified with Jesus, one on his right and the other on his left. Both represented the kind of broken people whom Jesus came to help. Each was an example of a “bruised reed” and a “smoldering wick” (Matthew 12:20, New International Version). But the attitudes of these men toward Jesus could not have been more diverse. One joined in the mocking and scorn of most of the onlookers. He saw Jesus’ messiahship only in terms of a “ticket” to escape execution (Luke 23:39). The other admitted that he and his partner were getting exactly what they deserved. Jesus, on the other hand, had done nothing to deserve the cruel treatment he was being given (v. 41). And in a bold step of faith, knowing he did not have long to live, the latter criminal requested, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (v. 42). Jesus then assured this man that yes, he would indeed remember him and allow him the privilege of being with him in paradise.
That repentant criminal’s words about his guilt and Jesus’ innocence could be echoed by each of us, especially at this time of Communion. Jesus, who did nothing wrong, took the sentence of death that we deserved because of our many sins. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us,” writes Paul (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus remembered every human being by virtue of his death for their sins. Communion provides a weekly opportunity for us to remember Jesus and the heavenly kingdom that awaits all his faithful followers (2 Timothy 4:18).
The repentant criminal used his final hour on earth to call upon the one whose kingdom, “not of this world” (John 18:36), offered him a hope beyond the grave. None of us who has chosen to follow Jesus knows what our “final hour” will be. No one is guaranteed tomorrow or even the remainder of today. May each day we are granted be lived in remembrance of Jesus because of what he did in remembrance of us.
Doug Redford has served in the preaching ministry, as an editor of adult Sunday school curriculum, and as a Bible college professor. Now retired, he continues to write and speak as opportunities arise.
Author: Doug Redford
Doug Redford has served in the preaching ministry, as an editor of adult Sunday school curriculum, and as a Bible college professor. Now retired, he continues to write and speak as opportunities arise.
