Covid19 has us stuck at home preparing for Easter… but we can mark each day with devotion. Click here if you missed a past day’s reading.
We planed to ding dong dash at Tim and Tamara’s house (dropping paper towels – they were out), but Tim caught us. We stood talking from ten feet away… with paper towels between us it was close to a fellowship meal.
Do you remember dinner parties? Barbecues? Family lunches? It has only been a few weeks, but it seems like forever. Covid19 has changed a lot in our lives. I don’t like the empty sanctuary when I preach… virtual school would be better if my kids were grown… but what I miss most are meals with friends and family.
Everyone has a story of a gathering missed. Ivy is still waiting on her birthday party. Our friends down the street had to cancel their annual St Patrick’s Day party. They are left with seven corn beefs in their freezer – seven. Next week, Easter, there will be many more gatherings missed…
Jesus invented just one ritual. Baptism was borrowed. But he created Communion. A meal together. I think he would share our quarantine dilemma and long for a multi-course meal. Or just dessert… anything more than paper towels.
Deeper: While not officially a Markan Sandwich this passage is similar. The first part is Judas’ betrayal (v17-21) and the passage concludes with the disciples’ denial (v27-31). In between is the Last Supper (v22-26).
The meal’s placement highlights the extent of God’s Love. For they partake of the bread and cup, his body broken and blood shed, even though they will betray or deny him.
Though we will not gather together during Holy Week, I hope you will still act out the Last Supper. As you take the elements allow the symbolic power to wash over you. No matter what we have done, what we will do, even denying, God has a place for us at redemption’s table.
PLUNGE47 