Preparation and Restoration

“And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. (Luke 22:19-20).”

It’s Day 4 of Holy Week, Passion Week and Jesus has sent Peter and John to go and make preparations for the Passover Feast. Having the privilege to be invited to a seder (a Jewish ritual service and ceremonial dinner composed of 15 sections all followed in specific order) I found it humbling, spiritual, and holy. Everything that was done was deliberate as we read from the Haggadah (a Jewish text that sets forth the order of the Passover Seder) as the story of the Israelites exodus from Egypt is told. From the recital of the Kiddush (blessing and drinking the first cup of wine) to the Nirtzah (“Next Year in Jerusalem”) there is holy reverence for what God had done.

Often referred to as Maundy Thursday, Day 4 of Holy Week is a solemn occasion. It was the last meal His disciples would eat with Him before He was betrayed and led to His death on a cross. Marked by Jesus washing the feet of His disciples (demonstrating selflessness and humility), it was a role reversal and an example of attitude and action for Christ followers; “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them (John 13:15-17).”

For us it is the exodus, a part of God’s divine plan to save us from eternal death, because of Christ our broken relationship with God is restored. It was His blood over the door post of our hearts when we accepted Him. He atoned for our sins, the new covenant in His blood poured out for us and for many!

“This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”