Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him. Say to the owner of the house, “The Teacher asks: Where is my guest room?” He will show you a large upper room, furnished and ready. 

Make preparations for us there. (Mark 14:13-15)

Mark 14:12-16,22-26

This week, we focus on the institution of the Holy Eucharist by Jesus as told through the eyes of the Gospel of Mark. As we look at this most holy of moments, we remind ourselves of the depth and intent of Jesus to make the Eucharist a very intimate occasion between himself and his disciples. We ponder what Jesus might be saying to us as we come and respond to this gift of himself.

Jesus sends Peter and John (identified in Luke’s account) to Jerusalem to prepare for the Passover meal. At first glance, it might seem that Jesus has handed over the responsibility of this occasion because he is just too busy to do it himself. But as we read deeper into the story, we recognise that Jesus has been intentionally involved in the preparation for this occasion for some time.

Jesus tells the disciples to look for a man carrying a water jar who will lead them to the venue. This would have been as clear as asking Google Maps to show you the route to your location. Men did not carry water jars; only women did. So, the man would have been clearly visible and knew exactly where to take them. Jesus showed them the way.

Jewish custom required that any pilgrim who wished to celebrate the Passover be given a room to do so. Jesus knew he needed a particular venue—one that could comfortably accommodate himself and all of his disciples. Upper rooms were built on top of Jewish homes, with separate entrances from the main house. Often, they were used as places of quiet and meditation. Rabbis sometimes used them to teach their intimate disciples. Jesus had booked well ahead and found an appropriate place.

Finally, Jesus chooses an interesting team of enthusiastic, energetic Peter and contemplative, caring John to bring their gifting to this preparation.

Later that day, Jesus' disciples would accept his invitation and attend.

Ponder a while on our response to Jesus' invitation to the Eucharist today:

Have we become complacent with a now familiar ritual?
Or do we recognise that Jesus still prepares in great detail how we might meet him intimately at every Eucharist?
What might Jesus be inviting you to prepare – physically, mentally or spiritually as he comes to be one with you? 
 

Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe

May the sacred feast of your table, Oh Lord, always strengthen and renew us, guide and protect us in our weakness amid the storms of the world, and bring us into the sanctuary of everlasting salvation.
Amen.

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