Lent Devotional | Maundy Thursday

His Presence: Intimate Nearness in the Upper Room

“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples.” (Mark 14:22)

Despite every effort of lengthened days and melting snow, it is a typical east coast spring afternoon. Against the will of the biting coastal wind, the process of warming the earth has begun. Nature knows it first, as the much-anticipated annual smelt run arrives. The tributaries are full of little fish, and every kid in town knows it. We convince our mother to drive us to the fishing hole on the edge of town, so we too might dip our nets, drop our hooks and experience the joy of the catch. That we were not particularly fond of smelts is of no consequence. Eating is beside the point.

The childhood wonder of seeing so many fish remains, but the dominant image is not of fish. Our mother stands on the riverbank, every bone in her body aware that the sun hasn’t quite warmed the earth. Mist permeates her wool coat and even the delight of excited children does not warm her.

Out of nowhere he arrives, thermos of coffee and a dirty plastic cup in hand. “Stump” was known by everyone in town. I suspect his humble cabin is close by. That he never recovered from the trauma of WWII, explains something of his habit, always on the way into or out of a state of drunkenness. To me he seems scary, even though everyone knows he is kind and harmless.

“Mrs. Maclean, I brought you this”. Our mother, tucking her training as a home economist aside, graciously receives a cup of coffee. It might as well be a chalice. The warmth of the exchange is palpable.

The gift is simple: a cup held out, a presence that does not pull away, a kindness given without hesitation.

On Maundy Thursday, we remember Jesus doing much the same. Being present. Showing up. No matter what lay ahead, He stayed at the table. He took bread, gave thanks, and offered Himself in love. In the giving and receiving, His face turned toward His disciples, attentive and faithful.

The gift of love; clearly seen in the one who offers, the one who receives, and the one who notices.

The countenance of Christ; reflected in the common cup, in the breaking of bread, and in a story to be told again and again.

Rev. Donna Tourneur

Congregational Minister
Trinity United Church 

Prayer

God of abundant love, may we ever be ready to receive the gift of your presence, even in the most unusual and unexpected moments. May those moments bring to life the story of your grace and the promise of your presence. As we recall this poignant evening of friendship and the brokenness of humanity, may we be reminded that we are not alone. Amen.

Reflection

Think of a time when you were moved by a simple gesture of hospitality. Recall a meal that filled something in you beyond hunger, offering warmth, care and presence.