Maundy Thursday: A Reflection

Throughout Lent, we focused on the historical nature of the book of Exodus, with one primary intent:  to demonstrate that all of the events leading up to the Exodus itself, including the institution of the passover, were historically grounded so that when Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper in celebrating it with his disciples, we could be assured that it wasn't just some fable from long ago, but factual reality.

For us, since our "service" on this Maundy Thursday commemoration has always been communion around a common table with the Lutheran potluck (one of the best meals a person can ever get - anywhere!), there was not much we could do to celebrate it since we cannot gather for either.

But that said, our lessons read today would be these:

Exodus 12:1-14 (the institution of the Passover as the 10th and final plague against Egypt unfolded)
Psalm 116:12-19
1 Corinthians 11:23-32 (the Words of Institution - for us)
Matthew 26:17-30 (the Lord's Supper)

It is perhaps a good time to review what we believe about this Sacrament of the church.  the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther succinctly tells us in the Small Catechism, that we believe in the real presence of Christ, as the bread and the wine are indeed "Jesus' body and blood, given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins."

And when is a person rightly prepared to receive this Sacrament?  This body and blood?  This forgiveness of sins through His body and blood?  Once again, the answer is "a person is rightly prepared when they believe those words above, for the words 'for you' simply require a believing heart."

Now there will indeed come a time, sooner than later, to borrow a phrase from the late great announcer Harry Carey, "as sure as God made green apples," we will gather together again and receive this wonderful sacrament, gift, and grace of God.  And when we do, it will be a joyous time!  But until that time comes, let us reflect on this great gift of God:  "Jesus' own body and blood, given and shed - for you - for the forgiveness of sins."

Tonight we enter the "triduum," or 3 days which are the most holy days of the church year.  Tomorrow's service will indeed be a joint service to be broadcast at 7 pm, but stay tuned for how to access that broadcast, as it is a prerecorded video since we cannot gather together. 

A blessed Maundy Thursday to you all,


Pr Jeff