Maundy Thursday on Easter

The Thursday before Easter, known as Maundy Thursday, is a powerful moment in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the Last Supper Jesus had with His disciples, setting in motion the events that would lead to the cross and ultimately the resurrection. Let’s take a deeper look at the meaning, history, and spiritual significance of this holy day.

The meaning behind “Maundy”

The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin word mandatum, meaning “command.” It refers to the new commandment Jesus gave His disciples on that night: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). This is the heart of Maundy Thursday—selfless love.

On this evening, Jesus humbled Himself and washed the feet of His disciples, showing them that greatness in the kingdom of God comes through serving others. This act fulfills His own teaching: “The greatest among you will be your servant” (Matthew 23:11).

The Last Supper and Holy Communion

Maundy Thursday also marks the institution of the Lord’s Supper. At the table, Jesus broke bread and shared wine, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19).

This moment is sacred, reminding believers of the New Covenant sealed by Christ’s sacrifice. Every time we partake in Communion, we remember that His body was broken and His blood was poured out for our salvation.

The garden of Gethsemane

After supper, Jesus went to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. There, He expressed deep sorrow and wrestled with the agony of what lay ahead. His prayer—”Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42)—shows His full submission to the Father.

This intense moment of surrender calls every believer to trust in God’s will, even in suffering. Jesus’ example shows that obedience often comes at a cost, but it is always worth it.

The betrayal and arrest

On the same night, Jesus was betrayed by Judas and arrested. Yet, even in this dark moment, He displayed peace and authority, reminding Peter not to resist with violence. “Put your sword back in its place, for all who draw the sword will die by the sword” (Matthew 26:52).

Maundy Thursday reveals the contrast between the world’s power and God’s kingdom. It is not built on control or revenge, but on love, humility, and surrender.

A call to live differently

Maundy Thursday challenges every believer to live differently. It is a call to servant-hearted love, to humility, and to trust in the plans of God even when they don’t make sense.

It’s a day to reflect deeply and prepare your heart for Good Friday and the glory of Resurrection Sunday.

Salvation Prayers : Dear Lord Jesus, I come to you today acknowledging my need for salvation. I confess that I have sinned and fallen short of your glory. But I believe that you died for my sins and rose again. I ask that you come into my heart and be my Lord. I commit to following you and living for you every day. Thank you for your love and for the gift of eternal life. In your name I pray, Amen. Amen If you prayed the above prayers kindly click here to get more information https://xgospel.net/harvest_form/form/?page=9363&salvation=true

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does the word “Maundy” mean?
   A. Holy
   B. Command
   C. Supper
   D. Peace
2. What significant event happened during the Last Supper?
   A. Jesus performed a miracle
   B. Jesus gave the Great Commission
   C. Jesus washed the disciples’ feet
   D. Jesus instituted Communion
3. Where did Jesus pray after the Last Supper?
   A. Mount Sinai
   B. Garden of Eden
   C. Garden of Gethsemane
   D. River Jordan
4. What did Jesus say about greatness in God’s kingdom?
   A. The strong will rule
   B. The richest shall lead
   C. The greatest will be your servant
   D. The first will always be first
5. What did Jesus do when Peter drew his sword at the arrest?
   A. Encouraged him to fight
   B. Blessed the sword
   C. Ignored it
   D. Told him to put it away

Discussion Questions

1. How does Jesus’ humility on Maundy Thursday challenge how you see leadership?
2. What does the act of Communion mean to you personally?
3. How can you live out Jesus’ command to love one another this week?
4. What lessons can we learn from Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane about facing trials?
5. Why is surrender such a powerful part of the Christian walk?

FAQs

What is Maundy Thursday about?
Maundy Thursday remembers the Last Supper, when Jesus gave His disciples a new commandment to love one another, instituted Communion, and washed their feet as a sign of servant leadership.

Why do Christians celebrate Maundy Thursday?
It prepares the heart for Good Friday and Easter, focusing on Jesus’ humility, sacrifice, and love.

Is Communion only for Maundy Thursday?
No, Christians celebrate Communion regularly, but Maundy Thursday is special because it marks the night it was first instituted.

Was Jesus afraid in Gethsemane?
Jesus was deeply troubled, but not afraid in a human sense. His prayer shows His full humanity and willingness to obey the Father’s will.

Why did Jesus wash the disciples’ feet?
He wanted to teach them about true humility and how love expresses itself through service.

Multiple Choice Answers

1. B. Command
2. D. Jesus instituted Communion
3. C. Garden of Gethsemane
4. C. The greatest will be your servant
5. D. Told him to put it away