Preparation
In the last week of his earthly life before his crucifixion, Jesus asks his disciples to make sure that arrangements are made for the Passover Feast. Jesus asks that the necessary preparations be made for this last meal before his death. .
The Passover Feast was the memorial that commemorated and celebrated the release of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt by the hand of God. So many Passover Feasts later, Jesus – the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:28) - is preparing for his sacrifice by which we are released from the slavery of sin and death.
Besides preparing himself, Jesus is mindful of preparing his disciples for what will happen in the next few hours and also in their life. On Maundy Thursday, we remember the command of Jesus to love one another and also that Jesus was willing to give his life for ours.
For many of us this is also a week of preparation. Some of us may be preparing for a Spring Break trip. Others of us are preparing to host family and friends for an Easter dinner. All of us can prepare for the message that “He is Risen” by remembering the sacrifice, suffering and death of Jesus for us.
At the communion service on Thursday night, we have the opportunity to again hear the words of Jesus to be prepared for the trouble that is in this world, but also to take heart about the future that is still held by him.
Hear the promise of Jesus that he is preparing for our victory – “In this world you may have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” He overcame the world of sin and death by way of the Cross. This Man of Sorrows is our Savior!
Man of Sorrows – what a name for the Son of God who came ruined sinners to reclaim.
Hallelujah, what a Savior.
And can it be that I should gain an interest in the Savior’s blood?
Died he for me, who caused his pain – for me, who caused his bitter death?
Amazing love! How can it be that you, my Lord, should die for me?
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