Have you ever felt like everything was falling apart, only to realize later that those difficult moments were actually setting the stage for something greater? As we approach the Easter season, I’m reminded of how Jesus faced His darkest hour with unwavering courage and purpose. Let’s explore how His actions during the Last Supper can inspire us to find triumph even in our most challenging times.
The Gathering Darkness
As we look at Luke 22:1-23, we see the plot against Jesus thickening. The religious leaders are scheming, Judas is betraying, and the shadow of the cross looms large. Yet, in this moment of impending tragedy, Jesus demonstrates an astounding level of control and foresight.
“Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some way to get rid of Jesus, for they were afraid of the people” (Luke 22:1-2).
The irony is palpable. During a festival celebrating God’s deliverance of His people, the religious leaders are plotting to kill the very One who came to bring ultimate deliverance.
Jesus’ Masterful Command
Despite the evil brewing around Him, Jesus remains in complete control. He gives His disciples oddly specific instructions about preparing for the Passover meal:
“He replied, ‘As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, and say to the owner of the house, “The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?” He will show you a large room upstairs, all furnished. Make preparations there'” (Luke 22:10-12).
This level of detail shows us that Jesus “knows exactly what’s going on. He’s in full command of the situation.” Nothing takes Him by surprise. He sees it all – “the upper room, the Garden of Gethsemane, the hill of Calvary, the empty tomb.” Jesus is “masterfully in command of His own destiny.”
A Meal of Deep Significance
As Jesus reclines at the table with His disciples, He infuses the traditional Passover meal with new, profound meaning:
“And he took bread, 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'” (Luke 22:19-20).
In this moment, Jesus is “serving up His own life” for His followers. He’s establishing a new covenant, fulfilling ancient promises, and preparing to become the ultimate Passover Lamb.
Triumph in Tragedy
Even as Jesus faces betrayal and death, we see triumph emerging:
- Jesus allows evil to play into His own hands, using it for ultimate good.
- He demonstrates His divine foreknowledge and sovereignty over all events.
- Jesus willingly offers Himself as the sacrifice that will bring redemption to the world.
As He says in John 10:18, “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again.”
Finding Our Triumph
So how can we apply these truths to our own lives when we face dark times?
- Trust in God’s bigger picture: Like Jesus, we can face difficulties knowing that God can work all things for good (Romans 8:28).
- Remember who we are in Christ: The Lord’s Supper reminds us that we are covered by Jesus’ sacrifice and united with Him.
- Look forward with hope: Our current struggles are temporary. We have a future glory to anticipate (2 Corinthians 4:17).
- Serve others sacrificially: Jesus’ example challenges us to love and serve, even in difficult circumstances.
- Commune with Christ: Draw strength from your relationship with Jesus, especially in times of trial.
Remember, “If we share in His sufferings, we know we shall also share in His glories.” Whatever tragedy you might be facing, know that in Christ, triumph is possible. Fix your eyes on Jesus, who turned the tragedy of the cross into the triumph of our salvation.
