Thursday, February 3, 2011

Last Supper

Luke 22
The Last Supper was the last passover meal that Jesus had with his disciples. It was thought to occur in the Upper Room but later archeological findings have questioned the location where this supper occurred.  Da Vinci's painting was made much of in Brown's novel made into the movie, Da Vinci code.  The placement of the disciples around the table remains a matter of speculation.
it was where Jesus said "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer."
The Passover supper of Judaism was the rite initiated by Moses from the time when Israelites were told to paint their doors with blood and hyssop to protect them.  On that occasion the first born of the Egyptians were killed while the Israelites were spared.  It was then that the Pharaoh let the Israelites go.
Hence the significance of the Passover Supper with Jesus being the first born sacrifice by which individuals might escape from the bondage of this world.
It is here that the rite of mass, of communion and of eucharist is stated.
"After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, "Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes."
"And he took break, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me."
"In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you."
Jesus has been called the "Servant King".  It is in Luke 22 that the reason for this is found.  At  the Last Supper Jesus said, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves."
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The Last Supper at Westminster Abby England

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