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This week for Maundy Thursday, we are going to gather around a supper table to eat and to worship. I always find this a powerful way to think about the story of the Last Supper as we sit together at a table in the presence of Christ.
And as I sit at that table, I often find myself thinking of Christ's disciples who sat at the table that night and whom Jesus served. Those gathered at that table included Judas who would sell Jesus out. Those gathered at that table included Peter who would deny knowing Jesus later in the evening. Those gathered at the table included disciples who could not stay awake with Jesus and those who fled in fear. There were those who had good intentions but kept focusing on the wrong things - like privilege. They were a motley crew - flawed and messy.
And yet Jesus washed their feet. Jesus fed them. Jesus loved them. That small group was the seed that would grow into the church that blesses us today. But they were far from perfect and Jesus knew it well.
As a pastor, I often hear horror stories from folks who have been hurt from churches. Some of these are in need of profound healing. But sometimes I think people are looking for the church to be "Saints incorporated" instead of "Sinners Anonymous." And they become disillusioned.
I think the church is at its best when we can come and be who we are - accepted and loved. In that environment we grow and we are transformed by love and we are changed to become more Christ like (hopefully!).
There are a couple of songs that have really touched me as I think about coming together at the table on Maundy Thursday. In the wonder of the internet, I can share the links so you can listen if you choose. One actualy comes from a Christmas album, but I always think of it for Maundy Thursday.
At this Table by Idina Menzel
All Belong Here by The Many
So one more thought about chosing to be part of Christ's far from perfect community. Years ago, I was a facilitator in a program called "Study Circles". As we prepared to discuss difficult topics, we would begin with a covenant and guidelines. One of my favorites was this: "Say 'ouch'. Say 'oops!'" In those 4 words I found the acknowedgement that the goal was not to be perfect in our relationships. It was to honor that mistakes get made. We can unintentionally cause one another pain - sometimes without even knowing it. But being a community was to create space where we could express those experiences and where we could apologize and heal whatever brokenness might come in those moments and move forward together. We did not need to be afraid of being imperfect.
I hope that you will join us at the table for Maundy Thursday worship at 6:30 pm!
May your Holy Week be blessed!
Rev Paige Besse-Rankin
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