On the Thursday

 

Luke 22:14-20

The Institution of the Lord’s Supper

When the hour came, he 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.

The cloth

thrown over the table

settles and comes to rest 

covering and beautifying. 

Covering up the scratches

of wear and tear

and family use,

transforming the kitchen table 

making it a welcoming space 

not just for family but for visitors too.

A place to greet old friends and make new.

A place to catch up with life and each other.

A place to encourage, persuade and cajole.

A place to listen and console.

A place to celebrate and commiserate.

A place to share food

that nurtures and sustains.

The bread of life, 

broken and shared around a table.

Gathered up

as each gives and takes what they need

and returns to give

and to take some more.