Thursday; March 29


          Historically-speaking, today is the anniversary of the Last Supper.  If we understand that Jesus was crucified on Friday, then the preceding night was an evening filled with betrayal, treachery, religious heresy and violence.  Yet, before all that unfolded, Jesus shared a quiet Passover feast with His closest companions.  Several things happened during dinner, but to me, one of the most important aspects of this evening was that Jesus knew this was going to be His last visit with these core disciples before their world was turned upside down.  Sure, there would be time to make sense of it all after the resurrection, but what did they need do know to get through the most tying time in their lives?  As we read the Gospels (especially John) we find that Jesus highlights several themes:  First of all, they needed to understand that they were not going to be alone.  They would have each other and they were going to have the Spirit of God with them.  They also needed to know that the thing that would get them through this (and everything else they were going to experience) was love.  Power and influence was what was going to lead to His death – love was what they had to have to endure.  Yet maybe the most pressing thing they needed to know what that the crisis they were about to face was not going to be the end.  Jesus’ ministry was not in vain – it would be completed.  Even though Jesus’ visit to earth was nearing an end, His influence in the world and in their lives would go on living.  Jesus made the disciples a promise, “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:3)
          Do we believe that Jesus is alive and well today?  If He could overcome the grave, is there anything He can’t do?  Satan is hoping to get us down so that we will give up.  Let’s not believe his lies, let’s put our faith in the One who promised His eternal presence.   
          Think About It!

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