Christ has prepared a place for us to experience him.

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And he sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him, and wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’ And he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready; there prepare for us.”
Mark 14:13 English Standard Version

When our ministry team arrives in Lepaterique, Honduras, we know that a great deal of effort has gone into preparing for our appearance.

This year’s arrival was no different than others. We were greeted with a sign, a pine needle carpet, fireworks, and most importantly, the people of Betesda Church. This welcome can be overwhelming to first timers as they’re being hugged by children and adults whom they’ve never met.

Preparation needed to be made for Jesus and his disciples to celebrate the Passover. The two disciples that Jesus commissioned for this task had to pay attention to detail so that everything was ready for the most important night of the year. Did these disciples hear Jesus’ words? Did they actually expect the room to be prepared and ready for the meal?

The Scriptures don’t tell us, but I imagine that these two men were a bit surprised when everything happened just as Jesus had said it would. I say “a bit surprised” because this isn’t the first time that Jesus has told them to do a task where something would already be prepared for them. Remember the colt on which Jesus sat?

The meal that we share with Jesus and his disciples today is a meal that has already been prepared for us. Jesus’ sacrifice has guaranteed that when we eat the bread and drink the wine, he is present with us. His gift of forgiveness embraces us. Everything has been prepared, and we are invited to the feast.

Betesda Church, Lepaterique, Honduras

The people of Lepaterique eventually went home, the disciples left the upper room, and we will leave the table. There is much more prepared for us to experience. May we continue to journey with Jesus on his way to the cross and empty tomb.

Picture and Text Copyright Douglas P Brauner