I remember standing in a room where they believe the “last supper” took place. I was about 16 years old, and visiting Israel with a group of adults from our church. Who knows if it was actually the room, or if somewhere an entire descended line continues to laugh for telling early Christians this playroom for children was once used for a final supper with Christ and His disciples. (the ultimate April fools joke?)
In either case, that moment among many of that trip – made Christ physical to me. Reminded me He was more than just a spiritual being, or a concept, or collection of fuzzy stories we tell to put children to sleep or get them to behave. Christ walked this earth. Jesus was. God came in the form of something created. Humble, human, prone to hungers and suffering.
He knew something huge was going to happen. That the next few days would transform all of humanity (history, present, and future), and all of creation through it. So he gathers them all into a room, washes their feet, talks with them about what God is doing, and breaks bread with them – communicating His Love for them the entire time…even to Judas.
Tonight we’re hosting a “Seder Dinner” at the church, for some families with children and teenagers. I was able to help write a guide for all the families to use. It’s really condensed, and different from traditional Seder guides, specifically because it points to Jesus. But one thing compiling it did for me, was remind me of the importance of passing on our stories to the generations that follow us. That’s why they had specific things symbolizing specific stories throughout the Passover meal – so that they would remember together. That gathering together, they would piece together the stories of how God had brought His people through so much. That together they would gaze into the future faithfulness of God. I think for future Seder dinners, I may add
Maybe you’re also celebrating the Passover meal tonight, as our story has joined the people of God living as slaves in Egypt. Just as they were freed from slavery, so are we made free from being slaves to sin and self. But even if a Seder dinner isn’t on your meal-plan this week – try to work in stories around the dinner table. Stories of how God has been at work in your life, and the life of your family. Tell them in a way that captures the imagination and hearts of your children. Don’t feel like you have a particularly engaging story? Grab a Bible. Those are OUR stories. Remind your children of the Jesus that died for them…prepare to celebrate the resurrected Christ…:)
words from wick 