At the Rock Bottom - April 9

Today’s Readings:  AM Psalm 102; PM Psalms 142, 143; Lam. 2:10-18; 1 Cor. 10:14-17, 11:27-32; Mark 14:12-25

Right now is an emotionally raw time for many. Images of our “rock bottom” are hard to endure. Vulnerable and scared, our inadequacies are laid out in front of us. Our readings on this Maundy Thursday help us honestly face our brokenness.

“I know the truth,” Jesus intimates. One of the twelve will betray him. What amount of indigestion and discomfort the disciples feel around the table in that upper room, gathering for a Passover meal with Jesus! I imagine their faces grow hot with concern, wondering if he knows, too, of the muttering and doubts they have whispered.

Jesus speaks about the hard, whole truth of brokenness and sin. While betrayal leads to the extinguishing of his human life, it doesn’t break the love Jesus has for his friends. They still gather together at the common table, sharing bread and wine. God’s love for us is unbreakable like that.

Remembering God’s mercy, today we are invited into a posture of honest self-examination. Rather than ask the disciples’ question of denial, “Surely, not I?”, perhaps we can ask, “Jesus, will you help me name my brokenness? Holy Spirit, will you embolden and heal me? God, will you forgive me, so that I can sit at your table?”

-- Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

  • When have I felt most unworthy?

  • Where in my body do I experience dread and regret?

Daily Challenge

  • Commit five minutes to self-examination: write honestly about sin or brokenness in your own life. Ask God to direct you into a space of healing and forgiveness. Write down insights and any next steps.

Katherine Harper