Holy Thursday

Holy Thursday

The Last Supper

And during supper Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. John 13:2b-5

Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” Luke 22:19-20

Meditation

            Although we have completed our study of the Stations of the Cross, tonight the journey begins again. Jesus has a final supper with his closest friends, the 12 disciples. He performs a selfless act of service by washing the feet of the disciples. Because most people walked around barefooted or in sandals, feet were always filthy. Cleaning the feet was the undesirable job of a servant, if the owner of the house had servants. Jesus assumed the role of servant and told the disciples they, too, needed to become servants.

            Also at this supper, Jesus initiates the sacrament of communion. He takes bread and wine from the table, blesses it, and shares it with his disciples, telling them to remember him every time they eat and drink. This plea for remembrance was not a narcissistic act. Jesus did not fear being forgotten for self-serving reasons. He feared being forgotten because he knew the disciples, and we today, would need to remember – to remember that Jesus is with us, Jesus is one with God, and through Jesus, we are also one with God.

Spiritual discipline

            Attend a Maundy Thursday service at the church of your choice. Hold the picture of Jesus at his last supper in your mind. Meditate for 10 minutes on the events that are about to come. You have walked the Via Dolorosa with Jesus over these past weeks, and you know what is next. Serve as a faithful and patient witness over the next three days.

Prayer

            Lord Jesus, wonderful counselor, I will remember you. I will remember this night with you each time I receive communion. I will remember the love you showed through the pain and suffering of your death. Finally, I will remember that you died so I could have life and have it abundantly. Amen.

This is the 47^th in a daily series titled The Stations of the Cross that will run through Easter 2026, at which time I will return to my weekly Life Notes. Life Notes are my explorations into mysteries that interest me. They are invitations for readers to explore more deeply into life’s mysteries. Engage with me or explore contemplative spiritual direction at ghildenbrand@outlook.com.