Good afternoon friends,
After Jesus washed his disciples' feet, he explains a little bit about what he's trying to teach them. The love we see in Jesus is concrete. He doesn't just talk about love and service; he shows it in practical ways. If we want to follow Jesus, that means putting love in action in simple, everyday ways.
God bless,
Sam
John 12:12-20
12After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? 13You call me Teacher and Lord—and you are right, for that is what I am. 14So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. 16Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. 17If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.
18I am not speaking of all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But it is to fulfill the scripture, ‘The one who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.’ 19I tell you this now, before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I am he. 20Very truly, I tell you, whoever receives one whom I send receives me; and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.”
Showing posts with label last supper. Show all posts
Showing posts with label last supper. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Adventures at sea, part 3
Good evening friends,
We just wrapped up our conference here after an inspiring worship service. It's been a real blessing to be in Florida for this conference, so thank you for the opportunity. Our reading this evening finishes this episode in Paul's adventure. The ship is in danger, but Paul has started to comfort the crew and passengers. So we'll see how they get out of this situation.
God bless,
Sam
We just wrapped up our conference here after an inspiring worship service. It's been a real blessing to be in Florida for this conference, so thank you for the opportunity. Our reading this evening finishes this episode in Paul's adventure. The ship is in danger, but Paul has started to comfort the crew and passengers. So we'll see how they get out of this situation.
God bless,
Sam
Acts 27:33-38
33 Just
before daybreak, Paul urged all of them to take some food, saying, ‘Today is
the fourteenth day that you have been in suspense and remaining without food,
having eaten nothing. 34Therefore I urge you to take some food, for
it will help you survive; for none of you will lose a hair from your heads.’ 35After
he had said this, he took bread; and giving thanks to God in the presence of
all, he broke it and began to eat. 36Then all of them were
encouraged and took food for themselves. 37(We were in all two
hundred and seventy-six persons in the
ship.) 38After they had satisfied their hunger, they lightened the
ship by throwing the wheat into the sea.
39 In the morning they did not recognize the land, but they
noticed a bay with a beach, on which they planned to run the ship ashore, if
they could. 40So they cast off the anchors and left them in the sea.
At the same time they loosened the ropes that tied the steering-oars; then
hoisting the foresail to the wind, they made for the beach. 41But
striking a reef, they ran the
ship aground; the bow stuck and remained immovable, but the stern was being
broken up by the force of the waves. 42The soldiers’ plan was to
kill the prisoners, so that none might swim away and escape; 43but
the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their plan. He
ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and make for the land, 44and
the rest to follow, some on planks and others on pieces of the ship. And so it
was that all were brought safely to land.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
family feud
Good morning friends,
In our reading today Jesus continues to warn his disciples that they will face challenges even from friends and the religious community they hold dear because of following Christ. Faithfulness isn't always easy. At our presbytery meeting yesterday one of our congregations, Bergen First Presbyterian Church, followed a calling they have long felt from God to leave the PC(USA). Sometimes following our call leads us away from what we have known. It was a sad moment, something like a divorce, because folks who have been linked by denomination for years are going a different way.
It was sad, and also joyful, because now both that congregation and the presbytery feel like they are following their call the right way. There is not always an obvious line that leads safely from here to our savior's call, but we are called and we can follow. We are not alone, and God is working with our church, our presbytery, our denomination and with the Bergen Presbyterian Church as they go their separate way, still serving God. Please keep our presbytery, denomination and the Bergen church in prayer for God's grace and guidance. Also, keep praying for you and for our congregation for that same guidance. God is doing something through each of us and through us together.
God bless,
Sam
In our reading today Jesus continues to warn his disciples that they will face challenges even from friends and the religious community they hold dear because of following Christ. Faithfulness isn't always easy. At our presbytery meeting yesterday one of our congregations, Bergen First Presbyterian Church, followed a calling they have long felt from God to leave the PC(USA). Sometimes following our call leads us away from what we have known. It was a sad moment, something like a divorce, because folks who have been linked by denomination for years are going a different way.
It was sad, and also joyful, because now both that congregation and the presbytery feel like they are following their call the right way. There is not always an obvious line that leads safely from here to our savior's call, but we are called and we can follow. We are not alone, and God is working with our church, our presbytery, our denomination and with the Bergen Presbyterian Church as they go their separate way, still serving God. Please keep our presbytery, denomination and the Bergen church in prayer for God's grace and guidance. Also, keep praying for you and for our congregation for that same guidance. God is doing something through each of us and through us together.
God bless,
Sam
John 16:1-6
”I have said these things to you to keep you from stumbling.
2They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, an hour is coming
when those who kill you will think that by doing so they are offering worship
to God. 3And they will do this because they have not known the
Father or me. 4But I have said these things to you so that when
their hour comes you may remember that I told you about them. “I did not say
these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5But
now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you
going?’ 6But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has
filled your hearts.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
the Lord's supper
Good evening friends,
This is the most detailed teaching we get in the Bible about communion. It's a bit challenging, but a great read.
Blessings,
Sam
This is the most detailed teaching we get in the Bible about communion. It's a bit challenging, but a great read.
Blessings,
Sam
1 Corinthians 11:23-34
23For I received from the Lord what I also handed
on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of
bread, 24and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This
is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 25In the
same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new
covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.”
26For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim
the Lord’s death until he comes.
27Whoever, therefore, eats the
bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be answerable
for the body and blood of the Lord. 28Examine yourselves, and only
then eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29For all who eat and
drink without discerning the body, eat and drink judgment against themselves. 30For
this reason many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. 31But
if we judged ourselves, we would not be judged. 32But when we are
judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along
with the world. 33So then, my brothers and sisters, when you come
together to eat, wait for one another. 34If you are hungry, eat at
home, so that when you come together, it will not be for your condemnation.
About the other things I will give instructions when I come.
Friday, April 5, 2013
this is the new covenant
Good evening friends,
Since we just celebrated Easter it feels like a step backwards to read about Jesus' last supper with his disciples. But Sunday we're talking about communion, and Jesus' words to his disciples at their last meal is a good hint for what that means for us. When we come to the Lord's table we're talking about the kingdom of God, anticipating a time when all people can be together in peace.
God bless,
Sam
Since we just celebrated Easter it feels like a step backwards to read about Jesus' last supper with his disciples. But Sunday we're talking about communion, and Jesus' words to his disciples at their last meal is a good hint for what that means for us. When we come to the Lord's table we're talking about the kingdom of God, anticipating a time when all people can be together in peace.
God bless,
Sam
Luke 22:7-20
7Then came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which
the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. 8So Jesus sent Peter and
John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover meal for us that we may eat it.” 9They
asked him, “Where do you want us to make preparations for it?” 10“Listen,”
he said to them, “when you have entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water
will meet you; follow him into the house he enters 11and say to the
owner of the house, ‘The teacher asks you, “Where is the guest room, where I
may eat the Passover with my disciples?”’ 12He will show you a large
room upstairs, already furnished. Make preparations for us there.” 13So
they went and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the
Passover meal.
14When the hour came, he took his place at the
table, and the apostles with him. 15He said to them, “I have eagerly
desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16for I tell
you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17Then
he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among
yourselves; 18for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of
the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19Then he
took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to
them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance
of me.” 20And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying,
“This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
prayer and arrest
Good morning friends,
Today's reading is Luke's version of Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane after his last supper with his disciples. We'll hear Mark's version tonight at the close of our Maundy Thursday service. That service begins at 6 with a potluck supper in Christler Hall. All are welcome. I love that in Jesus prayer, he doesn't get what he asks for first (God to spare him from the cross), but he does gain strength from the prayer. He also prays that, no matter what, God's will be done. That's a good model for us to remember too.
Jesus is also a model in his arrest. He goes peacefully and tells his disciples not to fight. He also forces the guards and leaders who arrest him to confront their actions. He reminds them that he's never been a threat, that he always acted openly, but they are arresting him in secret instead of in public. Most of the great non-violent protest is similar. It doesn't attack injustice on its own terms, but it does expose it to the light and call it wrong.
May our day be filled with integrity as well,
Sam
Sam Picard
Today's reading is Luke's version of Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane after his last supper with his disciples. We'll hear Mark's version tonight at the close of our Maundy Thursday service. That service begins at 6 with a potluck supper in Christler Hall. All are welcome. I love that in Jesus prayer, he doesn't get what he asks for first (God to spare him from the cross), but he does gain strength from the prayer. He also prays that, no matter what, God's will be done. That's a good model for us to remember too.
Jesus is also a model in his arrest. He goes peacefully and tells his disciples not to fight. He also forces the guards and leaders who arrest him to confront their actions. He reminds them that he's never been a threat, that he always acted openly, but they are arresting him in secret instead of in public. Most of the great non-violent protest is similar. It doesn't attack injustice on its own terms, but it does expose it to the light and call it wrong.
May our day be filled with integrity as well,
Sam
Luke 22:39-53
39He came out
and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed
him. 40When he reached the place, he said to them, “Pray that you
may not come into the time of trial.” 41Then he withdrew from them
about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and prayed, 42“Father, if you are
willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done.” 43Then
an angel from heaven appeared to him and gave him strength. 44In his
anguish he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat became like great drops of
blood falling down on the ground. 45When he got up from prayer, he
came to the disciples and found them sleeping because of grief, 46and
he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not come
into the time of trial.”
47While he was
still speaking, suddenly a crowd came, and the one called Judas, one of the
twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him; 48but
Jesus said to him, “Judas, is it with a kiss that you are betraying the Son of
Man?” 49When those who were around him saw what was coming, they
asked, “Lord, should we strike with the sword?” 50Then one of them
struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his right ear. 51But
Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him. 52Then
Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple police, and the
elders who had come for him, “Have you come out with swords and clubs as if I
were a bandit? 53When I was with you day after day in the temple,
you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness!”
Sam Picard
Pastor, Laurelton United Presbyterian Church
Daily Bible readings in interactive format: laureltonpastor.blogspot.com
Sermons: laureltonsermons.blogspot.com
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
priestly prayer
Good afternoon friends,
First, the nominating committee is meeting tonight; please keep us in prayer as we discern who God is calling to serve as elders in the coming years. Today's reading and the readings for the next couple of days are challenging. The fancy name scholars give this section of John is "the Great High Priestly prayer" because Jesus is our high priest who opens the way to God. This is a long prayer Jesus prays during the last supper with his disciples. It can be hard to follow because the language is repetitive. At the same time it is powerful because Jesus is expressing his hopes and concerns about his church to God. Take your time reading and feel free to read it more than once. For some people it may be easier to get out your Bible and read the whole prayer at once (John 17) rather than study it in pieces as we'll do in our reading together. Whatever works best for you, I hope Jesus' prayer will bless you in your discipleship.
God bless,
Sam
6”I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7Now they know that everything you have given me is from you; 8for the words that you gave to me I have given to them, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9I am asking on their behalf; I am not asking on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those whom you gave me, because they are yours. 10All mine are yours, and yours are mine; and I have been glorified in them.
First, the nominating committee is meeting tonight; please keep us in prayer as we discern who God is calling to serve as elders in the coming years. Today's reading and the readings for the next couple of days are challenging. The fancy name scholars give this section of John is "the Great High Priestly prayer" because Jesus is our high priest who opens the way to God. This is a long prayer Jesus prays during the last supper with his disciples. It can be hard to follow because the language is repetitive. At the same time it is powerful because Jesus is expressing his hopes and concerns about his church to God. Take your time reading and feel free to read it more than once. For some people it may be easier to get out your Bible and read the whole prayer at once (John 17) rather than study it in pieces as we'll do in our reading together. Whatever works best for you, I hope Jesus' prayer will bless you in your discipleship.
God bless,
Sam
John 17:1-10
After Jesus had spoken these words, he looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you, 2since you have given him authority over all people, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. 3And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. 4I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do. 5So now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had in your presence before the world existed.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
listening for the Spirit
Good evening friends,
Today's passage continues Jesus' discussion with his disciples at the last supper. He promises that he will send the Holy Spirit to guide them. He thinks the Spirit is so important that the disciples are better off with the Holy Spirit than with Jesus himself. Still, sometimes we forget that we have the Holy Spirit with us. As we learn to listen for the Spirit more, we will find guidance for life and joy in our faith. Try to pay attention for the Spirit's whisper. The more you cultivate a prayerful heart, the easier it will be to hear the Spirit speaking.
God bless,
Sam
Today's passage continues Jesus' discussion with his disciples at the last supper. He promises that he will send the Holy Spirit to guide them. He thinks the Spirit is so important that the disciples are better off with the Holy Spirit than with Jesus himself. Still, sometimes we forget that we have the Holy Spirit with us. As we learn to listen for the Spirit more, we will find guidance for life and joy in our faith. Try to pay attention for the Spirit's whisper. The more you cultivate a prayerful heart, the easier it will be to hear the Spirit speaking.
God bless,
Sam
John 15:26-16:15
26”When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father, he will testify on my behalf. 27You also are to testify because you have been with me from the beginning.
”I have said these things to you to keep you from stumbling. 2They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, an hour is coming when those who kill you will think that by doing so they are offering worship to God. 3And they will do this because they have not known the Father or me. 4But I have said these things to you so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you about them. “I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5But now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts.
7Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. 8And when he comes, he will prove the world wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: 9about sin, because they do not believe in me; 10about righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will see me no longer; 11about judgment, because the ruler of this world has been condemned. 12“I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14He will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15All that the Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
persecution
Good afternoon brothers and sisters,
I want to mention a new members class beginning on Tuesday evening from 7-9pm at the church. If you're interested in learning more about Laurelton and exploring membership, it would be great to have you. We will probably meet in my office. In our reading for today Jesus warns his disciples that their road won't be an easy one. In many ways the world we live in is opposed to God. Jesus stood for love and welcome; for that he was persecuted and killed. He warns the disciples that the same fate will often await them. Fortunately, in the end we can trust that love will overcome hatred. In the end all will be well. Even now we are not alone. Christ is with us through the Holy Spirit as we bear witness to his love in this challenging world.
God bless,
Sam
I want to mention a new members class beginning on Tuesday evening from 7-9pm at the church. If you're interested in learning more about Laurelton and exploring membership, it would be great to have you. We will probably meet in my office. In our reading for today Jesus warns his disciples that their road won't be an easy one. In many ways the world we live in is opposed to God. Jesus stood for love and welcome; for that he was persecuted and killed. He warns the disciples that the same fate will often await them. Fortunately, in the end we can trust that love will overcome hatred. In the end all will be well. Even now we are not alone. Christ is with us through the Holy Spirit as we bear witness to his love in this challenging world.
God bless,
Sam
John 15:18-25
18”If the world hates you, be aware that it hated me before it hated you. 19If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own. Because you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world—therefore the world hates you. 20Remember the word that I said to you, ‘Servants are not greater than their master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also. 21But they will do all these things to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. 22If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin. 23Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not have sin. But now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. 25It was to fulfill the word that is written in their law, ‘They hated me without a cause.’
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
promised Spirit
Good evening friends,
It's been a blessing to be at Stony Point for the synod's Early Ministry Institute. Yesterday I had the treat of a day in NYC and a chance to see Godspell on Broadway, which was an awesome presentation of Jesus' story. Today's passage takes us back in the story to Jesus and his disciples at the last supper. Jesus promises that even though he is going to die and then return to heaven, he is not going to leave them alone. Instead, he will send the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen them. We often forget it, but the Holy Spirit is in each of us. If we allow it, the Spirit will strengthen us for ministry and love. We are strong in the Spirit's power.
God bless,
Sam
It's been a blessing to be at Stony Point for the synod's Early Ministry Institute. Yesterday I had the treat of a day in NYC and a chance to see Godspell on Broadway, which was an awesome presentation of Jesus' story. Today's passage takes us back in the story to Jesus and his disciples at the last supper. Jesus promises that even though he is going to die and then return to heaven, he is not going to leave them alone. Instead, he will send the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen them. We often forget it, but the Holy Spirit is in each of us. If we allow it, the Spirit will strengthen us for ministry and love. We are strong in the Spirit's power.
God bless,
Sam
John 14:12-21
12Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father. 13I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14If in my name you ask me for anything, I will do it.
15”If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. 17This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you.
18”I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you. 19In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me; because I live, you also will live. 20On that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. 21They who have my commandments and keep them are those who love me; and those who love me will be loved by my Father, and I will love them and reveal myself to them.”
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
table talk
Good morning sisters and brothers,
Just a quick reminder that there is no supper and scripture tonight, but everyone is invited to our potluck supper and worship service tomorrow evening beginning at 6pm in Christler Hall. Today's reading begins the story we'll focus on tomorrow: Jesus' last supper with his disciples. It's hard to imagine what it would be like for those disciples. They were surrounded by the excitement of the big city and Jesus had been welcomed like a king. Now they were celebrating the Passover, remembering God's liberation of Israel from Egypt.
At the same time, Jesus kept talking about his death, and the conflict with the religious leaders was getting worse. At the meal Jesus starts talking about being betrayed by one of his closest followers. This is a powerful week in our faith story; I pray it's a powerful week for you personally.
God bless,
Sam
17When it was evening, he came with the twelve. 18And when they had taken their places and were eating, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me." 19They began to be distressed and to say to him one after another, "Surely, not I?" 20He said to them, "It is one of the twelve, one who is dipping bread into the bowl with me. 21For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that one by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that one not to have been born."
Just a quick reminder that there is no supper and scripture tonight, but everyone is invited to our potluck supper and worship service tomorrow evening beginning at 6pm in Christler Hall. Today's reading begins the story we'll focus on tomorrow: Jesus' last supper with his disciples. It's hard to imagine what it would be like for those disciples. They were surrounded by the excitement of the big city and Jesus had been welcomed like a king. Now they were celebrating the Passover, remembering God's liberation of Israel from Egypt.
At the same time, Jesus kept talking about his death, and the conflict with the religious leaders was getting worse. At the meal Jesus starts talking about being betrayed by one of his closest followers. This is a powerful week in our faith story; I pray it's a powerful week for you personally.
God bless,
Sam
Mark 14:12-21
12On the first day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover lamb is sacrificed, his disciples said to him, "Where do you want us to go and make the preparations for you to eat the Passover?" 13So he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, "'Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you; follow him, 14and wherever he enters, say to the owner of the house, 'The Teacher asks, Where is my guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?' 15He will show you a large room upstairs, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there." 16So the disciples set out and went to the city, and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal.
Friday, June 3, 2011
preparing for persecution
Good morning sisters and brothers,
I have one quick question, and I hate to bother everyone with it, but my memory isn't helping me out. I'm short two copies of The Shack from the group study pack I borrowed from the Webster Library. If anyone has one of those, it would really help me to have it back.
Today Jesus continues his warning to the disciples that they will be strongly opposed by religious people because of his message. He also says that he didn't give them such clear warnings before because he was with them. He's really preparing them carefully for a different phase in their lives. They will be guided by the Holy Spirit, but they will have to discern the way forward without him. He sees that this makes them sad, even though they still don't quite understand.
I think often we feel like the disciples do. We wish we just had Jesus around to show us the way. The truth is that while we can look forward to Christ's return, between his words, the Holy Spirit and the community of faith we have all that we need to be faithful. We can trust Jesus, trust ourselves, trust the Spirit and trust the community. Then we can boldly follow Jesus in this challenging world we live in.
Friday blessings,
Sam
John 16:1-6
”I have said these things to you to keep you from stumbling. 2They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, an hour is coming when those who kill you will think that by doing so they are offering worship to God. 3And they will do this because they have not known the Father or me. 4But I have said these things to you so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you about them. “I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5But now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts.
I have one quick question, and I hate to bother everyone with it, but my memory isn't helping me out. I'm short two copies of The Shack from the group study pack I borrowed from the Webster Library. If anyone has one of those, it would really help me to have it back.
Today Jesus continues his warning to the disciples that they will be strongly opposed by religious people because of his message. He also says that he didn't give them such clear warnings before because he was with them. He's really preparing them carefully for a different phase in their lives. They will be guided by the Holy Spirit, but they will have to discern the way forward without him. He sees that this makes them sad, even though they still don't quite understand.
I think often we feel like the disciples do. We wish we just had Jesus around to show us the way. The truth is that while we can look forward to Christ's return, between his words, the Holy Spirit and the community of faith we have all that we need to be faithful. We can trust Jesus, trust ourselves, trust the Spirit and trust the community. Then we can boldly follow Jesus in this challenging world we live in.
Friday blessings,
Sam
John 16:1-6
”I have said these things to you to keep you from stumbling. 2They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, an hour is coming when those who kill you will think that by doing so they are offering worship to God. 3And they will do this because they have not known the Father or me. 4But I have said these things to you so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you about them. “I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5But now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
abiding in love
Good morning brothers and sisters,
Jesus tells his disciples that he loves them and that keeping his commandments will help them rest closely in his love. Try not to be put off by the word commandment; as we'll find out the commandment is to love one another. We often think of commands and commandments negatively, but Jesus' commandments are about love and discipleship. He leads the way by showing us the greatest love by laying down his life for his friends. That's a good word this week as we remember our fallen military brothers and sisters, and it's a good word as we think about Jesus call to discipleship. The call to discipleship is a call to follow Jesus in loving others actively. True love isn't fuzzy and it sometimes costs us dearly. So let us abide in Christ's love and bear lasting fruit for the kingdom.
God bless,
Sam
John 15:9-17
9As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. 10If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete. 12“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
14You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. 16You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. 17I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another.
Jesus tells his disciples that he loves them and that keeping his commandments will help them rest closely in his love. Try not to be put off by the word commandment; as we'll find out the commandment is to love one another. We often think of commands and commandments negatively, but Jesus' commandments are about love and discipleship. He leads the way by showing us the greatest love by laying down his life for his friends. That's a good word this week as we remember our fallen military brothers and sisters, and it's a good word as we think about Jesus call to discipleship. The call to discipleship is a call to follow Jesus in loving others actively. True love isn't fuzzy and it sometimes costs us dearly. So let us abide in Christ's love and bear lasting fruit for the kingdom.
God bless,
Sam
John 15:9-17
9As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. 10If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete. 12“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
14You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. 16You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. 17I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
final words
Good morning friends,
Today's reading continues Jesus' last words to his disciples before his death. Here he focuses on the fact that Jesus isn't leaving them alone, but instead will send them the Holy Spirit to guide them. He also talks about how leaving this world to go to the Father is a source of joy for him, not just pain. No matter how powerful the forces against us look, God is more powerful, and God will stay with us no matter what.
God bless,
Sam
John 14:25-31
25”I have said these things to you while I am still with you. 26But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. 27Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
28You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I am coming to you.’ If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. 29And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe. 30I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me; 31but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us be on our way.
Today's reading continues Jesus' last words to his disciples before his death. Here he focuses on the fact that Jesus isn't leaving them alone, but instead will send them the Holy Spirit to guide them. He also talks about how leaving this world to go to the Father is a source of joy for him, not just pain. No matter how powerful the forces against us look, God is more powerful, and God will stay with us no matter what.
God bless,
Sam
John 14:25-31
25”I have said these things to you while I am still with you. 26But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. 27Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
28You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I am coming to you.’ If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. 29And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe. 30I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me; 31but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us be on our way.
Monday, April 18, 2011
in the Garden
Good morning friends,
As we begin Holy Week I want to remind you of an opportunity to begin the week with a powerful worship service focused on Christ's arrest and death. Tonight I'll be part of an ecumenical Tenebrae service at St. Ambrose beginning at 7:30 pm. In a Tenebrae service candles are extinguished as the service goes on, so the growing darkness mirrors the sorrow of the story. It should be a great service and a great way to get into the story of this holy week.
Our reading for today picks up where yesterday's left off. This week in our daily readings we'll read Matthew's passion in full. After eating a last supper with his disciples Jesus went out to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray for strength as his arrest approached. He sought support from his disciples, his friends, but they couldn't stay away with him. The story is familiar to many of us, but as you read it slowly let it really sink into your heart. These passages are often where Jesus feels most human to me, and we see a vision of how deep his love for us is.
God bless,
Sam
Matthew 26:36-56
36Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be grieved and agitated. 38Then he said to them, “I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and stay awake with me.” 39And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want.” 40Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, “So, could you not stay awake with me one hour? 41Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
42Again he went away for the second time and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” 43Again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. 44So leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words. 45Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.”
47While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, arrived; with him was a large crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man; arrest him.” 49At once he came up to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him. 50Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you are here to do.” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and arrested him.
51Suddenly, one of those with Jesus put his hand on his sword, drew it, and struck the slave of the high priest, cutting off his ear. 52Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place; for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. 53Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? 54But how then would the scriptures be fulfilled, which say it must happen in this way?” 55At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as though I were a bandit? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not arrest me. 56But all this has taken place, so that the scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.
As we begin Holy Week I want to remind you of an opportunity to begin the week with a powerful worship service focused on Christ's arrest and death. Tonight I'll be part of an ecumenical Tenebrae service at St. Ambrose beginning at 7:30 pm. In a Tenebrae service candles are extinguished as the service goes on, so the growing darkness mirrors the sorrow of the story. It should be a great service and a great way to get into the story of this holy week.
Our reading for today picks up where yesterday's left off. This week in our daily readings we'll read Matthew's passion in full. After eating a last supper with his disciples Jesus went out to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray for strength as his arrest approached. He sought support from his disciples, his friends, but they couldn't stay away with him. The story is familiar to many of us, but as you read it slowly let it really sink into your heart. These passages are often where Jesus feels most human to me, and we see a vision of how deep his love for us is.
God bless,
Sam
Matthew 26:36-56
36Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be grieved and agitated. 38Then he said to them, “I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and stay awake with me.” 39And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want.” 40Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, “So, could you not stay awake with me one hour? 41Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
42Again he went away for the second time and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” 43Again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. 44So leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words. 45Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.”
47While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, arrived; with him was a large crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man; arrest him.” 49At once he came up to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him. 50Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you are here to do.” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and arrested him.
51Suddenly, one of those with Jesus put his hand on his sword, drew it, and struck the slave of the high priest, cutting off his ear. 52Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place; for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. 53Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? 54But how then would the scriptures be fulfilled, which say it must happen in this way?” 55At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as though I were a bandit? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not arrest me. 56But all this has taken place, so that the scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Palms to betrayal
Good morning sisters and brothers,
With Palm Sunday we begin Holy Week, the most intensive period of Lent and the heart of the Christian year. It is a week of highs and lows as our two readings for today show. We start with a huge crowd welcoming Jesus into Jerusalem as a king. Before long, though, Judas agrees to betray Jesus to the religious leaders, and the leaders arrest Jesus to have him executed by Pilate. Jesus is crucified, buried and rises again in triumph. All that happens in a week. The great thing about Holy Week is that we have worship opportunities throughout it that help us get into the story. I usually need concrete reminders to help my spiritual focus, and Holy week gives us just that. Much of the week is dark as we have to confront betrayal, abandonment, suffering and death. But that darkness helps us realize the depth of Jesus' love for us and makes the story real. The darkness also helps us see the true glory of Easter.
I urge you to take advantage of this week of preparation to deepen your faith, to get into the story of our Lord's last week. Our worship schedule is on the website and will be in our bulletin. Here's the short version:
Monday: Ecumenical Tenebrae service (focusing on Jesus' passion) at St. Ambrose, 7:30 pm
Thursday: Maundy Thursday (remembering the Last Supper and Jesus' arrest) Potluck supper at 6:15, worship at 7
Friday: Ecumenical stations of the Cross tour starting and ending at West Ave. United Methodist (Chili and West) 9:30-11:30, worship at LUPC, 12:30pm
Sunday: Easter Sunrise service at the eastern edge of parking area B of Durand Eastman Park, 6 am; Laurelton Easter worship 10 am here with flowers for the cross.
Blessings on your Holy Week,
Sam
Matthew 21:1-11
1When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2saying to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. 3If anyone says anything to you, just say this, ‘The Lord needs them.’ And he will send them immediately.” 4This took place to fulfill what had been spoken through the prophet, saying,
5 “Tell the daughter of Zion,
Look, your king is coming to you,
humble, and mounted on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
6The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; 7they brought the donkey and the colt, and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. 8A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting,
“Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!
Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
10When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, “Who is this?” 11The crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.”
*Sunday
Matthew 26:14-35
Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15and said, “What will you give me if I betray him to you?” They paid him thirty pieces of silver. 16And from that moment he began to look for an opportunity to betray him.
17On the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where do you want us to make the preparations for you to eat the Passover?” 18He said, “Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is near; I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.’” 19So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover meal.
20When it was evening, he took his place with the twelve; 21and while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.” 22And they became greatly distressed and began to say to him one after another, “Surely not I, Lord?” 23He answered, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. 24The Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that one by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that one not to have been born.” 25Judas, who betrayed him, said, “Surely not I, Rabbi?” He replied, “You have said so.”
26While they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” 27Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; 28for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29I tell you, I will never again drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”
30When they had sung the hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
31Then Jesus said to them, “You will all become deserters because of me this night;
for it is written,
‘I will strike the shepherd,
and the sheep of the flock will be scattered’
32But after I am raised up, I will go ahead of you to Galilee.” 33Peter said to him, “Though all become deserters because of you, I will never desert you.” 34Jesus said to him, “Truly I tell you, this very night, before the cock crows, you will deny me three times.” 35Peter said to him, “Even though I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And so said all the disciples.
With Palm Sunday we begin Holy Week, the most intensive period of Lent and the heart of the Christian year. It is a week of highs and lows as our two readings for today show. We start with a huge crowd welcoming Jesus into Jerusalem as a king. Before long, though, Judas agrees to betray Jesus to the religious leaders, and the leaders arrest Jesus to have him executed by Pilate. Jesus is crucified, buried and rises again in triumph. All that happens in a week. The great thing about Holy Week is that we have worship opportunities throughout it that help us get into the story. I usually need concrete reminders to help my spiritual focus, and Holy week gives us just that. Much of the week is dark as we have to confront betrayal, abandonment, suffering and death. But that darkness helps us realize the depth of Jesus' love for us and makes the story real. The darkness also helps us see the true glory of Easter.
I urge you to take advantage of this week of preparation to deepen your faith, to get into the story of our Lord's last week. Our worship schedule is on the website and will be in our bulletin. Here's the short version:
Monday: Ecumenical Tenebrae service (focusing on Jesus' passion) at St. Ambrose, 7:30 pm
Thursday: Maundy Thursday (remembering the Last Supper and Jesus' arrest) Potluck supper at 6:15, worship at 7
Friday: Ecumenical stations of the Cross tour starting and ending at West Ave. United Methodist (Chili and West) 9:30-11:30, worship at LUPC, 12:30pm
Sunday: Easter Sunrise service at the eastern edge of parking area B of Durand Eastman Park, 6 am; Laurelton Easter worship 10 am here with flowers for the cross.
Blessings on your Holy Week,
Sam
Matthew 21:1-11
1When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2saying to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. 3If anyone says anything to you, just say this, ‘The Lord needs them.’ And he will send them immediately.” 4This took place to fulfill what had been spoken through the prophet, saying,
5 “Tell the daughter of Zion,
Look, your king is coming to you,
humble, and mounted on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
6The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; 7they brought the donkey and the colt, and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. 8A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting,
“Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!
Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
10When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, “Who is this?” 11The crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.”
*Sunday
Matthew 26:14-35
Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15and said, “What will you give me if I betray him to you?” They paid him thirty pieces of silver. 16And from that moment he began to look for an opportunity to betray him.
17On the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where do you want us to make the preparations for you to eat the Passover?” 18He said, “Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is near; I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.’” 19So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover meal.
20When it was evening, he took his place with the twelve; 21and while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.” 22And they became greatly distressed and began to say to him one after another, “Surely not I, Lord?” 23He answered, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. 24The Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that one by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that one not to have been born.” 25Judas, who betrayed him, said, “Surely not I, Rabbi?” He replied, “You have said so.”
26While they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” 27Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; 28for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29I tell you, I will never again drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”
30When they had sung the hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
31Then Jesus said to them, “You will all become deserters because of me this night;
for it is written,
‘I will strike the shepherd,
and the sheep of the flock will be scattered’
32But after I am raised up, I will go ahead of you to Galilee.” 33Peter said to him, “Though all become deserters because of you, I will never desert you.” 34Jesus said to him, “Truly I tell you, this very night, before the cock crows, you will deny me three times.” 35Peter said to him, “Even though I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And so said all the disciples.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
serving at the table
Good morning friends,
At his last supper with the disciples Jesus gives them the symbols we remember at communion: his body broken for us and his blood poured out. Even at that late stage of his ministry his disciples don't get it. When he says that one of them will betray him, rather than examining themselves they look at others and deny the possibility. Then right away they start arguing about which of them is the greatest. It's almost comical: at that table, having just heard the Lord tell them again that he's about to be betrayed by one of them and killed, they would argue about something like that. It would be comical if the church had learned its lesson. Instead, the church is often consumed with bickering. As individual churches or as factions within denominations, as individual people within churches we often let our egos get in the way of ministry. Jesus stands in our midst to remind us that even as our Lord, he came to serve, even to die for us. How will you use your power and leadership today?
God bless,
Sam
Luke 22:14-27
14When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. 15He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; 18for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 20And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.
21But see, the one who betrays me is with me, and his hand is on the table. 22For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined, but woe to that one by whom he is betrayed!” 23Then they began to ask one another, which one of them it could be who would do this. 24A dispute also arose among them as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. 25But he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. 26But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. 27For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.
At his last supper with the disciples Jesus gives them the symbols we remember at communion: his body broken for us and his blood poured out. Even at that late stage of his ministry his disciples don't get it. When he says that one of them will betray him, rather than examining themselves they look at others and deny the possibility. Then right away they start arguing about which of them is the greatest. It's almost comical: at that table, having just heard the Lord tell them again that he's about to be betrayed by one of them and killed, they would argue about something like that. It would be comical if the church had learned its lesson. Instead, the church is often consumed with bickering. As individual churches or as factions within denominations, as individual people within churches we often let our egos get in the way of ministry. Jesus stands in our midst to remind us that even as our Lord, he came to serve, even to die for us. How will you use your power and leadership today?
God bless,
Sam
Luke 22:14-27
14When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. 15He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; 18for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 20And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.
21But see, the one who betrays me is with me, and his hand is on the table. 22For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined, but woe to that one by whom he is betrayed!” 23Then they began to ask one another, which one of them it could be who would do this. 24A dispute also arose among them as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. 25But he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. 26But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. 27For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.
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