We’ve all the heard the story many times. Jesus had made a triumphal entry into Jerusalem and was sharing a meal with His disciples. The Last Supper, the final meal, is marked today as Maundy Thursday. But do you know what “Maundy” Thursday means? I was thinking this morning that I must have heard it. For most of my formidable years, I was raised in a Lutheran church that was steeped in tradition which included a yearly Maundy Thursday service. In all transparency, I couldn’t remember so I looked it up this morning. “Maundy” is taken from the first few Latin words sung at a ceremony of the washing of the feet – a religious rite. An important part of the Last Supper experience as Jesus washed the disciples feet, showing them how they should love and serve each other in humility.
I wondered then, how much of the rest of today’s meaning have we forgotten or lightly passed over as we look toward Sunday with anticipation? It’s much more pleasant to think about. Jesus spent this day talking about His own death. Although the disciples had heard it mentioned before, today it became real. They didn’t want to hear about it either. Two of His disciples certainly never wanted to hear that one would betray Him and one would deny knowing Him. Jesus intended to prepare them for His departure. Think about that…
You’re sitting (most likely reclining on the floor) at a table listening to someone you’ve devoted the last few years of your life to. By devoted, I don’t just mean going to church once, maybe twice a week, reading the Bible now and again… but you quit your job, left your family and followed Him for years. You are obedient, humble and treasure Jesus Christ above everything. Now you are listening to Him describe the events of the next few days. Stop for a minute and think of someone you love dearly… and then try and imagine them telling you when and how they will die. (I’m shaking my head as it’s not something I can fathom). But I’m going to ask you to try again… do your best to imagine such a time. The myriad of emotions they must have been feeling.
So why would I ask that of you today? Most of us don’t like anyone to talk about blood and many of us don’t even like the sight of blood. But let’s make sure we recall, that in what we are remembering (and celebrating) today…. there is no salvation apart from the blood. It is the blood of Jesus that washes away all sin. It’s why we commemorate this day with communion. Jesus asked us to do so often – in remembrance of Him.
In a previous post I shared one of my newer favorite songs – “Love Ran Red“. I would go so far as to say it was a key inspiration for the naming of this blog. I feel so strongly in what the lyrics depict for us today. At the Cross… it’s a place where sin and shame are powerless. Powerless to try and make me feel less than. Where my heart can be at peace with God (and with myself). And where forgiveness and all the love I could ever known comes like a flood, flowing down. If I you haven’t listened to that song in awhile, do so today. But do so savoring every word, as it is our anthem on this very special day.
I’d like to ask one more thing of you today, and perhaps over the next few days (and longer if you like). Find your most favorite cross, perhaps a wall hanging, a picture, one at the top of a church or one you wear around your neck. Look at it differently today than you may have before. Not just as a symbol of Christianity, but for what that cross has done for YOU.
Our salvation was paid for – at the highest price.
What can wash away my sin? What can make me whole again?
NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD.
Those are lyrics to a much more well known hymn. I wanted to share it with you today and when I went searching for one I was astounded just how many versions of the song have been recorded. (I actually stopped counting). Whatever type of Christian music you prefer, from traditional to contemporary, from Gospel to instrumental, you can find it. (Oh, and I must tell you, there’s even versions recorded by Charlie Daniels and Andy Griffith)! But today, I heard a version by Jadon Lavik that I resonated with and I hope you do as well. It has beautiful uncomplicated guitar accompaniment and simple, yet wonderful harmonies. I bet you’ll be singing along!
Please enjoy it as you reflect on the amazing sacrifice our Lord made for us today and what it means for our tomorrows.
Let’s make the heartbeat of our life from this day forward to worship at the foot of such a glorious place – the cross.