When the hour came, Jesus took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” Then 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.” And 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. But see, the one who betrays me is with me, and his hand is on the table. For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined, but woe to that one by whom he is betrayed!” Then they began to ask one another, which one of them it could be who would do this.
A dispute also arose among them as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. But he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. For 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.
“You are those who have stood by me in my trials; and I confer on you, just as my Father has conferred on me, a kingdom, so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” Luke 22:14-30
Dear Aunt Elizabeth,
Tonight was our last supper together as a family. Tomorrow we will set out on our travels away from everyone I know. We will have to go a long way round, since Poppa is very concerned about us being followed. We had a huge meal with all my favorites. We all tried to be happy and positive but it felt more like a funeral meal than a celebration. It was delicious and Momma had gone all out, but it was hard sitting there, looking at the people I love, knowing that we won't see each other for quite some time. Afterwards, I ran outside and cried.
We collected some water from the stream in the dark. It was cool and I stood for a time with my feet in the stream. This simple pleasure will be no more as well. I feel poured out, Auntie, my body and spirit stretched to the limit. God promised through the angel that I was being blessed and honored. Somehow, it doesn't feel like blessing nor honor right now. I know I have to be patient but it is so hard!
Momma and I read your letter about your new little boy John and how Uncle has recovered his voice! We are so happy and excited for you! Momma was talking about coming to see you soon. It made me tear up knowing that I couldn't join her nor see the little one, so long awaited. I am a bundle of emotions these days. I think having a child within has changed me so much and not always for the better. I can cry and laugh very easily.
Please pray for us as we go forth so very soon. I keep in touch as best I can.
love always,
Mary
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