The Small Catechism – part 231
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: 2 Corinthians 1:9
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Small Catechism, Holy Communion
How can bodily eating and drinking produce such great benefits?
It is not the eating and drinking alone, but also the words that accompany it, “Given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.” These words, together with the eating and drinking, are the chief thing in the Sacrament, and those who believe them have what they say and declare, namely, the forgiveness of sins.
Pulling It Together: The struggle to be righteous is a desperate effort. There have been times when considering my life — my thoughts and actions — I nearly despaired. The words of the psalmist have come home to me more than a few times when I remember how I spent parts of my youth (Psalm 25:7). My youth certainly, but do not remember the sins of my adulthood either. So, I have to rely on God’s mercy. The Lord alone makes this sinner holy. I could not achieve holiness in a thousand lifetimes (So goes the hopes of others in reincarnation.). Yet, I have learned that God is bent over me with a steadfast and faithful love. He is intent to give me forgiveness of my sins whenever I ask. Imagine that: God giving such a remarkable gift, just for the asking. For Christ’s sake, he gives even more. He gives salvation and everlasting life. This is the promise apprehended each time we eat and drink with faith.
Prayer: Lead me from hopelessness to trust in you, Lord. Amen.
Click here for resources to learn the Ten Commandments.
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Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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