Wednesday 16 April 2025
One of his disciples – the one whom Jesus loved – was reclining next to him. (v. 23)
Background
I wonder what you do to relax? For me there’s nothing better than getting out on my road bike but I do also love times with family around a table. Here we encounter Jesus on the evening before his crucifixion. John in his gospel does not give us an account of the Last Supper but has focused on Jesus washing his disciples’ feet. (John 13:1-17) We are then taken to the meal table where we see the disciples reclining with Jesus. An important part of the symbolism of Passover is a reminder of the Jewish people's freedom from slavery in Egypt. One of the ways this is shown is through reclining at a table to eat. In ancient tradition, only free people could recline to eat; slaves and servants stood.
We are given a brief insight into the closeness of Jesus and his disciples. At this significant moment in the religious life of the community they have chosen to recline and eat together. It is a moment of relaxation in the midst of a whirlwind week, one that is hugely important for our faith with roughly 40% of the gospel text covering this one week. And yet even during this meal Jesus is aware that the time of his trial and death is drawing near.
I don’t think we can imagine the pressure that Jesus must have been feeling at that time and yet he approaches acknowledging his betrayer (Judas) with nothing but love. No one else around that table knew the implication of that moment when Jesus handed the bread to Judas and yet through this moment, as we read at the end of the passage, the Son of Man (which is how Jesus sometimes referred to himself) is glorified. (vs 31-32)
Over these coming days which are so central to our Christian faith maybe we need to recognise how we betray Jesus too, but also acknowledge his love for us.
To Ponder:
- In what ways do you betray Jesus?
- How do you relax and do you allow God to be part of it?
- What does it mean to you for God to call you to recline at God's table?
Prayer
Loving Jesus, we remember how you reclined at the table with your disciples as you approached the moment of betrayal. We acknowledge before you our betrayals of your love for us and give thanks that you still call us to recline at your table. Be in our reflections this Holy Week and challenge us to know our freedom in you. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Louisa Haynes
Louisa Haynes is the Circuit Superintendent for Hull Centre and West Methodist Circuit. Writing the reflections this week was a collective effort and she thanks the Superintendents from the Yorkshire North and East District.