HOLY WEEK: THURSDAY

Do you know what was happening on what many call “Maundy Thursday”?  In the life of Jesus, the cross and tomb are now nearer than ever.

But this is no meaningless death – and no permanent tomb.  But first, He prepares His disciples and then prepares Himself for the sacrifice of “the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.”

The Last SUPPER takes place in an upper room. The disciples are there, but thinking of a Passover meal.  Jesus is thinking about THE Passover.  THE sacrifice. “This bread is my body which is broken for you.”  And then…”this cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is shed for you.”  This makes little sense to the disciples at the moment – but after all is said and done, it comes rushing back to their minds and it’s crystal clear.  Jesus IS the Lamb.

At the Last Supper they observe Him SERVE them.  On His knees, Jesus washes their feet and gives them the command to love one another.  They cannot fathom this kind of leadership – the kind that is humble, the kind that serves and loves.  It’s so distinctly different from what they’ve seen before Jesus – but here He is telling them, “YOU do this.”
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Then, the SURRENDER in the Garden of Gethsemane.  Can you imagine sweating drops of blood?  Can you grasp knowing the decision you were about to make would justify (or condemn) the sinfulness of mankind?  Imagine knowing you were chosen to satisfy the WRATH of God on behalf of every person who ever existed.  Jesus said, “Not My will, but Thy will be done.”  Then, they came to take Him away.