This is the day that Christians usually think about when they start "Holy Week". Today, tomorrow, and through Sunday, Christians everywhere will reflect on the actions of others and realize the power of love, specifically, the love God has for us.
The most beautiful thing happened with Jesus and his disciples. Jesus wrapped a towel around his waist and washed his disciples feet. Can you imagine? Your Lord and Savior washing your feet? I probably would have been like Peter and would have tried to stop Jesus. Maybe because I know my feet are gross...but probably just because I don't feel I'm worthy of such an action, especially from Jesus. After Jesus washed his disciples feet, he reminds the disciples to love and care for one another. No servant is greater than his master and you will be blessed if you follow Jesus' example.
When he was done, Jesus took the bread and the wine from the meal and blessed it, giving us what we now celebrate as holy communion. Before, Jesus told Judas he knew he was going to betray him. The other disciples didn't understand.
Then, Jesus took the bread, gave thanks, and said, "Take, eat; this is My body." Jesus then took the cup, gave thanks, and said, "Drink from this, all of you. This is my blood, poured out."
After the meal was finished, Jesus told Peter he would deny him three times before the rooster crowed. Peter didn't believe it and promised he would not, along with the other disciples. Then, Jesus told them he was getting ready to go where they could not follow him. Confused, they didn't know where or how to find him. Jesus assured them he would prepare a room for them in his Father's house. Then, Jesus told the disciples he was the only way to go to the Father. Those who wish to must believe him him first.
In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prays to be glorified, prays for his disciples, and prays for all believers. He goes, prays, and returns to find the disciples sleeping three times. When Jesus went to them the third time, he knew it was his time to be arrested.
During the arrest, Judas pointed Jesus out to the priests and Peter stole a sword and cut off a guard's ear. Pretty intense, huh? To make it worse, Jesus was right about Peter. He was sitting and three different people came up and asked if he was with Jesus. Peter said no all three times. Immediately after the third time, a rooster crowed and Peter ran and wept.
Can you feel the emotion of that Thursday evening? It brings chills to my skin thinking about it. I remember sitting in church when I was younger during our Maundy Thursday service. As our Pastor would read deeper in the scripture, the lights would get more and more dim. Eventually, they would be out. Sitting in the dark, listening to the words being read was intense. What made it even more intense, someone would ring a gong and the spotlight would shine on the cross. It was such a powerful image, I don't think it will leave my heart for a long time.
Tonight, I challenge you to read Matthew 26 and John 13-18:18. The words in the Bible will give you the details I left out. Open your hearts tonight as Jesus prepares to give the ultimate gift to the world. Are you ready to receive it this weekend?
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