One common method for studying scripture, especially when reading an actual account or a parable, is to insert yourself in the storyline. By asking questions such as “what is the setting?”, “who is speaking”, “who is present?”, “what would you be thinking if you were there, too?” the  reader is able to bring the story to life.

This week I read Mark 14: 12-26 which gives an account of Jesus’ last Passover meal that He celebrated around a table with His disciples. The Passover meal was one in their Jewish tradition that was very familiar and I believe that this particular festive meal posed no differences for them. A guest room had been found. Groceries for the meal were purchased. All was ready as the 12 gathered at the table set before them, reclining as each settled in to enjoy the food and each other’s company.

In the midst of casual conversations around the table, laced with laughter or healthy banter, Jesus offers an interruption that brought a halt to their otherwise bouts of banter and reflections on the day. There is no buffer, no preface for what He’s about to reveal. In a matter of fact way, Jesus declares that “one of you will betray me”.

Immediately, Mark lets us know that the 12 became saddened. I imagine cups were set down on the table. Postures took on a rigid stance. Platters ladened with food were now ignored. All eyes are on Jesus now and each disciple begins uttering “is it me?” “Is it me?”.

The only answer given is that “it is one of you….” the disciples are left hanging, their only clue is that it is one of the 12 at the table, who has feasted with them, who has walked with them and Jesus during his three years of ministry. But Jesus doesn’t leave the 12 in the midst of their dismay, questions, or saddened emotions. He interrupts the atmosphere again, taking up bread and cup, to reveal a new mystery–a broken body that is to come, represented by common bread, and a drink cup–most likely wine–to personify the shed blood which is to come.

The season of Lent is drawing close to the end. The account here in Mark is often referred to as “The Last Supper” which is where we Christians derive our celebration referred to as “communion”. Now, instead of 12 disciples around a table, millions of believers around the world participate in this sacrament…but sadly, instead of “one” person being singled out as a betrayer of Christ, many of us fall short. But God!

Through the shedding of Christ’s blood, the forgiveness of sins, by actively participating in building a sincere relationship with Him, we are not seen as the “one” who betrays, rather God considers us His child, a saint made righteous by the shedding of His son’s blood and our response to that sacrifice.

Lent offers us an opportunity to surrender any apathy we have toward God, family, friends, or neighbors. Just as Jesus was actively present with the 12 around a festive table that began with common foods and later served under a new teaching, a new directive–to eat, drink and remember–we have God’s active presence in our lives, too.

This Lent, may you receive His love for you in the offering of His body and blood. May we all feast at the table He has set before us to remember His sacrifice for all.