Well Prepared 20 March 2008

Mark 14:12-25
Maundy Thursday
20 March 2008

Another childhood memory: Easter shopping. Head to toe I would be outfitted so that I looked my best and crispest for the holiest day of the year. The thing is that it always seemed that Easter sneaked up on us and we would be out on the day before buying something that had been left out. But we couldn't wait; we had to be ready for the DAY!

The disciples finally ask the right question. Where do you want us to go and make preparations? It is Passover, the celebration that frames Jewish identity and reminds them of God's intervention in human circumstances. In one sense they are a little late if their goal is to make preparations, since the day has already arrived. On the other hand, their commitment in the midst of the whirlwind of events is admirable. They may be clueless but they have not forgotten the most important season of the Jewish year.

Jesus' response is telling, as he gives them specific instructions about the person they should look for in the city - a man carrying water. The reason Jesus did not need to give a fuller description is that it was woman's work to carry water in that community. A man carrying water would stand out. Then Jesus lets them know that the gathering place for their meal together has already been furnished and made ready.

That evening following the Passover ritual meal, Jesus shows them that the real preparations go far beyond their work or that of the man carrying water. Things are already in motion that will bring about the events he has been describing to them on the way. One of them is a traitor who already is in contact with Jesus' enemies. More importantly, the memory of the first covenant that they share in the Passover prefigures the establishment of the new covenant in his own broken body and blood. Another ritual meal emerges. All things, indeed, are made ready.

Nearing the end of Holy Week, we may be a step behind when we ask Jesus about the preparations. But thank God this season has come around so that even the densest Christians will think of Christ's passion and resurrection this week. You'd have to be living under a rock not to realize that this is a holy season. So, again we have the opportunity to catch up. We get to ask Christ again, "What would you like for us to do to prepare ourselves for the meal that you already prepared?" Go ahead and ask him. Listen for his answer. We're running out of time.

Sing: "Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling"

Let us pray:
Loving God, even if we were in danger of forgetting before, the season has reminded us again of the gracious opening you prepared for us to be your children. As we ingest the symbols of our faith, the broken body and blood of Jesus Christ, may we grow thereby into greater faithfulness and commitment to follow in his steps. May our hearts and lives be places furnished and ready, well prepared for your residence and use. Let your will be done in us. Amen