July 27

This do in remembrance of me.—Luke 22:19.

WITH what feelings do I come to the Lord's table? Is it as a contrite, humble sinner, having no merit or strength of my own, but resting on Christ, by faith, for pardon, acceptance, strength for duty, and final salvation? Do I come with devout gratitude for all that Christ has done and promised, consecrating myself afresh to him, and asking his presence, and guidance, and comfort, in all the events of life? As he has died for me, do I here form fresh purposes of living for him?

The holy communion was appointed to be observed in remembrance of Christ; to keep fresh in our minds his dying for us, as well as to remind us of an absent friend, even Christ, interceding for us, in virtue of his death, at God's right hand.—MATTHEW HENRY.

The sacrament of the Lord's Supper has a threefold aspect. It is a privilege to be enjoyed; a duty to be performed, and a means of grace to the Christian, to encourage and strengthen him in the divine life. In it Christ graciously meets his children, and gives them a foretaste of endless communion with him in heaven.

Heavenward ever bound I haste, When thy table, Lord, is spread; Heavenly strength on earth I taste, Feeding on the living bread. Life, and light, and joy combined, In the Saviour here I find.