Holy Week – Maundy Thursday

Mark 14:22-25
During the meal Jesus took some bread in his hands. He blessed the bread and broke it. Then he gave it to his disciples and said, “Take this. It is my body.” Jesus picked up a cup of wine and gave thanks to God. He gave it to his disciples, and they all drank some. Then he said, “This is my blood, which is poured out for many people, and with it God makes his agreement. From now on I will not drink any wine, until I drink new wine in God’s kingdom.”

Gracious God, as Good Friday approaches, we reflect upon the events in the upper room. On the night before He was betrayed, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples in an act of humility and servitude and so may we respond and commit to serving others. On the night before He was betrayed, Jesus spoke of reconciliation between God and His people, so may we continue to nurture relationships rooted in God’s love for us and may we follow His commands and be the people He would have us be. And on the night before He was betrayed, Jesus asked us to remember Him, and so this day we give thanks for His sacrifice upon the cross. As Jesus suffered rejection and persecution, may we support all those who feel rejected, oppressed and unloved. Living God, give us the courage and the strength to witness to the Good News of Jesus Christ and his resurrection, for it is In His name that we pray, Amen.