Daily Devotion for Lent - Day 37

Scripture Reading: Luke 22:1-30

I've always been inspired by the fact that Judas was allowed to eat with the rest of the disciples at the Passover meal.  As we see Jesus move them to the new tradition of the Lord's Supper, it doesn't become an annual rite but a regular spiritual rhythm for Christians as they gather together.

As Jesus is clearly aware of the impending betrayal, he doesn't even out Judas to the rest of the disciples (although John's account seems to indicate this).  If it ever seemed like a good idea to close the table to someone, Judas should be the top candidate.

I'm not sure who 
came up with this
name for a beer.
Maybe because
of what is does to
your liver?

So, this becomes a reminder that grace isn't earned or deserved.  Grace may not even be bothered about nefarious intent.  This is hard for us to wrap our heads around.

It may cause us to stop and ask the question, "Why even bother being good?"  Of course, the answer to this is that if we are being good so as to stand out over those who aren't, we may have our own nefarious intent.

I like in Luke's Gospel how when Jesus drops the bombshell about his betrayal, the disciples start arguing over which one of them is the best disciple.  And this is right after receiving the very first Holy Communion!  

This is a perfect reminder that we all have a long way to go before we get to where we need to be spiritually.  It is also a good reminder that taking Communion doesn't automatically fix our faults!

As tomorrow is Holy Thursday, there should be ample opportunity for you to receive the sacrament.  I would invite you to do so with a heart that is open to the greater Christian community.  There will be those of differing theological or political camps receiving this same day.  What does it mean to share at the same table with them?

Prayer for the day:

Gracious God, you provide for us in a myriad of ways.  You strengthen us and you forgive us in our weaknesses.  Sometimes our weakness extends to our ability to be in relationship with our brothers and sisters in the faith.  Regardless of how we see them, you see them as your children.  Bless us with your sight.  In Jesus' name,  Amen.

 Photo by Miquel C. via Flickr.com.  Used under the Creative Commons License.