Liturgy: “Choosing Friendship”

With His death mere hours away, Jesus chose to spend an evening feasting with His disciples. He chose people.

Table set for dinner
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What is the King’s Liturgy? King’s Liturgy defines our experience together as a Christian community. It outlines the rhythms we celebrate with the Church at large: Scripture readings, Sabbath habits, and celebration of Holy Days and historical events.

This Week’s Lectionary Readings:
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Philippians 2:5-11
Matthew 26:14-27:66
Psalm 31:9-16

This week’s liturgy is contributed by Marisa Iglesias, Admissions Counselor:

“When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve.” – Matthew 26:20

I am the third of four girls in my family, so you can say I am the most middle child ever. I love being in the middle of the chaos. I thrive on adventure and change.

My father was in the US Navy for thirty years, and although he was in the Reserve for most of my childhood, he switched back to active duty when I was in high school. This meant I would be moving from New Mexico to the D.C. area in the middle of my junior year. I could not have been more thrilled for the cross-country move. Sure, I would miss my friends and my life in the Southwest, but I would meet new friends and make a new home on the East Coast. I was hungry for something new.

Several years later, I was a transfer student in the Chicago area, and I was ready for new priorities. Yes, I was once again excited to start afresh and dive into a new environment with new people, but I also desired depth over distance. I had just left a university in California and, although I had some incredible experiences, I had not invested in the things that are lasting. At this point, I was desperate for true community. I entered into my junior year of college on a mission: I would pursue and prioritize Christ-centered friendship.

This verse in Matthew 26 strikes me in a number of ways. But, I also love the picture it paints in my mind – it is getting dark outside, so the room is dimly lit. Jesus is relaxing at the supper table with His disciples after an incredible meal. It feels so familiar and inviting. It seems to capture this idyllic moment, before the betrayal, before the cross, just a group of best friends celebrating and dining together.

Jesus knew who He was and why He was here. And yet, with His death mere hours away, He chose to spend an evening feasting with His disciples. He chose people.

What are my priorities, both when things are carefree and easy and when confronted with the realities of this fallen world? This verse is an example for me to be present with others, in the best of times and the worst. It reminds me to prioritize the image bearers that God has placed around me. And, ultimately, prioritize the one true Friend who died to set me free.


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