Gairney Bridge

I read the following words this evening, which appear at the end of the section on the Lord’s Supper, written in The Genevan Book of Order (1556):

“If perchance any would marvel why we follow rather this order than any other in the administration of this sacrament, let him diligently consider, that, first of all, we utterly renounce the error of the Papists; secondly, we restore unto the sacraments their own substance, and to Christ his proper place. And as for the words of the Lord’s Supper, we rehearse them not because they should change the substance of the bread or wine, or that the repetition thereof, with the intent of the sacrificer, should make the sacrament (as the Papists falsely believe), but they are read and pronounced, to teach us how to behave ourselves in this action, and that Christ might witness unto our faith, as it were with his own mouth, that he has ordained these signs for our spiritual use and comfort. We do first, therefore, examine ourselves, according to St. Paul’s rule, and prepare our minds that we may be worthy partakers of so high mysteries. Then taking bread, we give thanks, break, and distribute it, as Christ our Saviour has taught us. Finally, the minis tration [sic] ended, we give thanks again, according to his example. So that without his word and warrant, there is nothing in this holy action attempted.” (Emphasis added)

The three things mentioned are worthy of being mediated upon. We must first examine ourselves so that we are prepared to come to the table. Then, thanks is given for the bread and wine, which is distributed and consumed. Finally, thanks is given again for this sacrament from our Lord.

May we always give thanks to our Lord for the way He nourishes us through the bread and wine of His holy Supper, to our spiritual use and comfort.