On this day during Holy Week, we remember Jesus washing the feet of his disciples and then gathering at table with them for the Last Supper.

I’m always reminded of this:

One of the most amazing things (most holy things) about the Last Supper, to me, is that Jesus sat at table with his betrayer. Knowing his enemy was at the table, Jesus still made room for him. Jesus still gave thanks.

I would like to tell you I’m good at giving thanks in difficult situations. But I know I’m not. I know I’d rather complain or shut down or find ways to numb out (binge-watch, anyone?).

But Jesus chooses to be grateful and in community – even with his betrayer. And let’s not just beat up on Judas…he will play a pivotal role in Jesus’ arrest, but Peter will deny him three times, the rest of them will scatter and hide – there’s no one at the table who will really keep it together through what’s about to come. Each one is flawed and human.

Except the one who chooses to sacrifice himself for their sake and for ours.

That’s why Christians observe these days each year. As the old hymn says: love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.

When Be could have been at his worst, when he could have resorted to anger, when he could have given in to fear – Jesus chose kindness, servanthood, and community.

This Holy Week, as we continue to walk this journey with Jesus, may we be moved by all he did for us. May we choose to serve Him by choosing kindness, gratitude and community – especially in the moments when it is most difficult to do so.