Real Hope: Food for the Soulنموونە

The Last Supper

When we eat a meal with others, we can never be entirely sure whether we will ever meet and eat with them again. Some of our meals are had in the context of departure, whether by death or by simply moving elsewhere. So there is a poignancy attached to them. We might enjoy the time together, but that enjoyment is tinged with the sad realisation that such times are coming to an end.

Such was the nature of what we call the Last Supper. Jesus is shortly to die. He says this is the last formal meal they will have, though a lakeside breakfast is mentioned after His resurrection.

Jesus says that one day they will enjoy such table fellowship again, but this time in the new heavens and new earth. Such was the significance and enjoyment of eating and drinking together that it was often regarded as a feature of the life to come. No playing harps on clouds, but rather enjoying sharing a meal with one another in our new bodies.

When we eat and drink with one another, we do so aware of our human imperfections. This was so in the Last Supper. The disciples did battle amongst themselves about who was the greatest in Luke’s account. Jesus was aware of Peter’s future denial of Him. And He was well aware of that dark and shadowy figure of Judas who was itching to betray Him.

Our fellowship with each other will never be free of human fallibility, and may be touched by sorrow. All of this was evident in the Last Supper, but so too was grace and love and hope. And in that time when every tear will be wiped away, there will be no more poignancy or imperfection. Just fully satisfied people enjoying Jesus and one another forever.

Written by DAVID REAY