While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.”

Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all drank from it. “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,” he said to them. (Mark 14:22-24, NIV)

Simple words.

“This is my body. This is my blood.” Shocking.

We could get distracted by trying to figure out what the words mean. We would do better to simply accept them for what they symbolize.

Jesus died for many. Jesus died for you. For me. He offers us his body and blood. He offers himself.

Like those with him at the historical last supper, I sit and ponder the significance of this offer. I don’t know what to think. I don’t know how to respond. I am overwhelmed. No one ever did this for me before. How do I accept such a gift?

I want to say, “Don’t do that for me. I’m not worth it.” But it is already done. I’m too late with my advice.

This wine he offers covers a multitude of sins. Good thing–I have a multitude to cover.

Jesus, I thank you for your overkind offer. I humbly accept.