Holy Week: Last Supper

Last Supper

Today in Holy Week is know as Holy Thursday and Last Supper, often referred to as Maundy Thursday. This day is marked by profound acts of love, servanthood, and sacrifice, all of which are integral to the Christian faith.

Maundy Thursday: The Meaning Behind the Name

The term "Maundy" is derived from the Latin word "mandatum," which translates to "command." This refers to Jesus's command to His disciples during the Last Supper to love one another as He loved them. Central to Maundy Thursday is the powerful act of foot washing, as described in the Gospel of John.

Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet

In John 13:1-17, we witness a remarkable moment where Jesus, knowing His time was short, takes on the role of a servant by washing the feet of His disciples. This gesture exemplifies humility and selflessness, demonstrating that true leadership involves serving others. When Peter initially resists this act, Jesus reveals the deeper symbolism: “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.” Through this act, Jesus emphasizes that His followers are called to serve one another, reversing societal norms about power and authority.

This narrative teaches us that no one is greater than their master, and true greatness is found in humility and the willingness to serve others. It echoes the second greatest commandment: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” By washing the feet of His friends, Jesus sets an example that transcends time and continues to challenge us today.

The Last Supper: Instituting Holy Communion

Following the foot-washing, we transition to the Last Supper, an event rich with meaning. In Matthew 26:17-30, we see Jesus preparing to share the Passover meal with His disciples. He takes bread, breaks it, and says, “Take eat, this is my body,” symbolizing His impending sacrifice. He then takes the cup, stating, “This is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.”

This moment establishes the sacrament of Holy Communion, inviting believers to remember Jesus’s sacrifice and to partake in the communal aspect of their faith. The Last Supper serves as a reminder of the new covenant between God and humanity, which is grounded in love, forgiveness, and redemption.

The Agony in the Garden

After the Last Supper, the narrative shifts to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus experiences profound anguish as He prepares for His impending crucifixion. In Mark 14:32-42, we witness Jesus’s vulnerability and humanity. He asks His disciples to stay awake and pray while He seeks strength from the Father, crying, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You; take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”

The depth of Jesus’s sorrow is palpable, underscoring the weight of the sins of the world He is about to bear. His invitation for the disciples to watch and pray highlights the need for spiritual vigilance and support during trials. Despite their exhaustion, they succumb to sleep, illustrating the human struggle against temptation and weakness.

Peter’s Denial: A Moment of Weakness

On this fateful night, we also encounter Peter, who adamantly proclaims he would never deny Jesus. Yet, as events unfold, he finds himself succumbing to fear and ultimately denies knowing Jesus three times before the rooster crows. This moment serves as a sobering reminder of our fragility and the importance of remaining steadfast in faith.

Conclusion: A Day of Profound Reflection

Holy Thursday invites us to reflect deeply on the themes of servanthood, sacrifice, and vulnerability. As we continue our observance of Holy Week, let us carry these lessons in our hearts, striving to emulate the love and humility that Jesus displayed. This day is a pivotal point in the unfolding story of redemption, leading us toward Good Friday and the celebration of Easter Sunday.

Join us tomorrow as we delve into the events of Good Friday, the culmination of Jesus’s sacrifice and the hope it brings to all who believe. God bless you this Holy Week!

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