What is Holy Thursday... a hope for the resurrection
As we approach Easter, the Christian Church observes Holy Week, a time of reflection on the events leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. One of the most significant days in Holy Week is Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, which commemorates the Last Supper and Christ's sacrifice on the cross. But why do we still practice this ancient tradition, and what does it mean for us today?
Holy Thursday is the day that Jesus shared his last meal with his disciples before his arrest and crucifixion.
During this meal, which is now known as the Last Supper, Jesus washed his disciples' feet, an act of service and humility that
demonstrated his love for them. He also shared bread and wine with them, telling them that the bread was his body, and the wine was his blood, which would be given up for them.
This act of sharing a meal together has become central to Christian worship, with the practice of Communion or the Eucharist. On Holy Thursday, we retell the story of the Last Supper and remember Christ's sacrifice for us. This is a powerful reminder of the depth of God's love for us, and the sacrifice that was made on our behalf.
But Holy Thursday is also a day of darkness, as we remember the events that followed the Last Supper. Jesus was betrayed by one of his own disciples, Judas, and was arrested by the Roman authorities. He was then subjected to a sham trial, where he was found guilty of blasphemy and sentenced to death by crucifixion.
The events of Holy Thursday and the days that followed are central to the Christian faith, and they remind us of the importance of retelling the story of Christ's life, death, and resurrection.
By remembering these events, we are reminded of the depth of God's love for us and the sacrifice that was made on our behalf. We are also reminded of our own call to service and humility, as Jesus demonstrated in washing his disciples' feet.
So why do we still practice Holy Thursday, and why is it still important for us today? Holy Thursday reminds us of our identity as Christians and our call to follow Christ's example of service and sacrifice. It is a powerful reminder of the
depth of God's love for us and the sacrifice that was made on our behalf.
As we observe Holy Thursday, let us remember the Last Supper, Christ's sacrifice on the cross, and the hope of the resurrection.
I hope you might join us at our Holy Thursday service at 7 pm April 6th at Oceanside First Presbyterian Church and Preschool