Holy Week GuideSample

Day 5: Maundy Thursday

Maundy Thursday began with a feast but ended with a fallout. The disciples readied a place in a local man’s home to celebrate the Passover meal with Jesus. He knew that the time was nearing when He would leave the earth and return to His Father. So He gathered them together and instructed them. He began by washing their feet, even the feet of the one He knew would betray him. Afterwards, He joined them at the table, informing His disciples that one of them would betray Him. Judas acted as if he was surprised by this even though he had just been plotting ways to hand Jesus over. Judas left and then Jesus led them in the Lord's Supper. This meal would be a symbol of His sacrifice and his lasting covenant with His people. After the meal, Jesus predicted Peter's denial and spent time praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, submitting to God's will despite His anguish. The day ended with Judas betraying Jesus with a kiss, handing Him over to be arrested. In that moment, Judas’ downfall became the doorway for God’s ultimate plan to unfold.

Reflection:

Today as you reflect, ask yourself this question…

What would I do in the face of betrayal? Would I respond like Jesus with grace and truth or would I lash out and seek vindication?

Allow the example that Jesus set of following God’s plan of forgiveness and submission to challenge you today. Spend time in prayer like Jesus did in the Garden and ask Him to be glorified in your life.