I have no idea how often you celebrate the last supper as Paul commanded us to do in Luke 11:26. Each Christian denomination seems to interpret the right frequency with some differences. Some say there is true transubstantiation. Some say not. From what I can gather we all believe it is important and a way to celebrate our Lord and Savior.

The Chosen crowd sourced television show has likely been viewed all over the globe by now. Jonathan Roumie plays the role of Jesus in the films. I cannot imagine the spiritual pressure upon him as he goes about his daily life. Paul said we do warfare against the spiritual forces of darkness. No doubt in my mind that warfare continues today. Jonathan is likely a prime target.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power; ¹¹ put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil, ¹² for our struggle is not against blood and flesh but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on the evil day and, having prevailed against everything, to stand firm.  Ephesians 6: 10-13 NRSV

There was a conference of Catholics in Indiana recently. Jonathan, a devout Catholic, spoke at the conference. Below is his speech in its entirety.

Flannery O’Connor wrote the quote on his shirt.

The great Catholic novelist, Flannery O’Connor, was admirably blunt. She once attended a party where non-Catholics discussed the Eucharist. Her host said that the Eucharist was a very good symbol but that was all it was. O’Connor famously replied, “Well, if it’s just a symbol, to hell with it.” 

O’Connor’s objection was not that symbolism is useless or has no place in spiritual matters. Indeed, her stories are filled with it, vividly showing the working of God even among simple and grotesque people. However, she knew that the sacraments are different. The symbolism of the sacraments is made meaningful by the fact that they literally are the things they represent. If this fact were false, the sacraments would be worthless.

After viewing the video, I wondered about the skull rings he wore on each hand. Memento mori (Latin for “remember (that you have) to die”) is a reminder that life is short. I always remember none of us is getting out alive, unless Jesus returns before we die. Jonathon’s rings must do the same for him. The Franciscans also kept reminders of this fact.

Lord, I pray you will protect Jonathan and all those who embrace Your life, death. and resurrection. Be known to us in the breaking of the bread and through Your indwelling Spirit I pray. May Your name be glorified in all we do and say. Amen.

When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. ³¹ Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. ³² They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” Luke 24: 30-32 NRSV