These thoughts were part of a series of Easter reflections prepared for, and by, members of Horley Baptist Church during April 2020. This reflection is based on Mark 14 v16-25.
For nearly two thousand years, millions of people have looked at this passage at Easter-time. For many people it will bring to mind Leonardo da Vinci’s famous fresco of the Last Supper; for others it forms the focus of every communion service. For those of us who have become ‘hardened’ to passages such as this, how is it possible to see something new in words that are so familiar?
The first gem in this passage came from words in verse 16 – [they] “found things just as Jesus had told them.” Jesus knew the details in advance. A similar thought can de detected in verses 18 and 21 – Jesus knew in advance. As we work our way though one of the most difficult periods in modern history we too can take comfort in the assurance that Jesus knew in advance.
“When evening came, Jesus arrived.” It had been a strange day; a simple visit to the home of some friends had turned into an event that was difficult to understand. Now it was getting dark and the disciples did not know what the evening would bring. In our insecurity about the future we too can look forward to Jesus being with us.
“He … gave it to his disciples.” He shared the meal with them. Of course, it was not an ordinary meal – it was the Passover meal when most of the city would have been recalling the way in which God had rescued his people from Egypt. We remember that we too have been delivered by the actions that Jesus foretells during this meal. All the twelve disciples were included, not even Judas was excluded. Rather, Jesus took the opportunity to warn Judas of the consequences of his actions; it was not too late to repent. Is that relevant to you?
“that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.” Jesus spoke of better times to come. He was looking forward to the time when a great multitude that no one could count would stand before the throne of God. Will you be there?
He knew, he came, he shared, he reassured. Let us live with confidence knowing that this Lord is our shepherd and, whatever happens in the meantime, we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
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Contributed by Steve Humphreys; © the Author
