A Hymn for Holy Communion.

In that sad memorable night,
  When Jesus was for us betray'd,
He left His death-recording rite,
  He took, and bless'd, and brake the Bread,
And gave His own their last bequest,
  And thus His love's intent expressed: 
Take, eat: this is My Body, given,
  To purchase life and peace for you,
Pardon and holiness in heaven:
  Do this, My dying love to show;
Accept your precious legacy,
  And thus, My friends, remember Me.
He took into His hands the Cup,
  To crown the Sacramental Feast,
And full of kind concern look'd up,
  And gave what He to them had blest;,
And drink ye all of  This , He said,
  In solemn memory of the dead.
This is My Blood which seals the new
  Eternal covenant of My grace;
My Blood so freely shed for you;
  For you and all the sinful race;
My Blood, that speaks your sins forgiven,
  And justifies your claim to heaven.
The grace which I to all bequeath
  In this Divine Memorial take;
And mindful of your Saviour's death,
  Do this, My followers, for My sake,
Whose dying love hath left behind,
  Eternal life for all mankind.
                   Charles Wesley,  1708-1788.

 

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