Holy Thursday

On Holy/Maundy Thursday, Jesus & His disciples share the Last Supper. Jesus broke bread with them for the last time before the crucifixion. He told the disciples that one of them would betray Him and He also predicted Peter’s denial.

Luke 22:31-24

31And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”

33 But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.”

34 Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”

Maundy Thursday was also when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples. After He washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:34) He tells them:

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another.”

Maundy, means commandment or mandate.

On that Thursday Jesus gave His disciples a new commandment or mandate which is why we use the term Maundy Thursday. His mandate is: “…love one another: just as I have loved you…”

After the meal, the disciples went with Jesus to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed in agony. “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”

On Maundy Thursday:

1) Take time to receive communion & reflect on The Love of God poured out for you.

2) Remember Jesus’ words to Peter, “Satan desires to sift you like wheat…” Don’t be discouraged, deceived or confused when the enemy of your soul comes to kill, steal and destroy. Stay focused on Jesus. His grace is sufficient. Stay committed and fully devoted to Him.

3) Take time to love and serve others according to Jesus’ commandment/mandate.

4) Remember Jesus in the Garden and pray your own prayer of surrender to The Father.

5) Ask The Holy Spirit to show you how to love others better and more deeply. Forgive anyone who has wronged you and pray blessings over them. Reach out in love to others everywhere you go.

This picture was taken from the Garden of Gethsemane where we worshipped, surrendered to Him and took Communion.

Garden of Gethsemane

Pastor Kelly Hudnall