by Kala Loptien

Maundy Thursday

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this Sound Cloud link.

And he took 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 likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.”
Luke 22: 19-20 ESV

This is an intense week. We started with Palm Sunday, reading about His fateful, prophesied ride. The people were praising Him, waving their palm branches and crying out “Hosanna!” The week continues with washing feet, the first communion, the Garden, betrayal, denial, trial and a tomb.

When I was younger, I always thought we were going to “Monday-Thursday Service.” I didn’t quite have the name down, but I knew this service (and this week) were important. I learned much later that “Maundy” comes from the Latin, mandatum, meaning commandment. We read what Jesus asks – or rather – commands us to do in the Gospels. In John 13, we see Jesus, preparing to wash the feet of His disciples. And the disciples, quite skeptical, not grasping why their master would wash their feet. He provides them (and us) with an example of how to lead with a servant heart, in great humility and love.

We switch scenes to the Upper Room, where they’ve prepared the Passover. Jesus takes the bread, gives thanks and breaks it for them. Then He takes the cup, the new covenant in His blood. He says to them and to us, “do this in remembrance of me.” He knew (and we know) what was to come after The Last Supper.

Maundy Thursday is a day to remember. We remember our Lord, shortly after His fateful ride, as He spends His last few moments serving His disciples, praying and preparing. He’s preparing them for what’s to come. He’s preparing them for a new life and a new covenant. Through His body and blood, we are given new life. Along with it, a call to serve and love like Jesus did. When we approach that table with Him, may we always do so with intentional, reverent hearts. It’s there we remember His selfless ministry, His deep love, His greatest command and His ultimate sacrifice.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado