them, and they all drank from it. “This is my blood of the covenant,
which is poured out for many,” He said to them. “Truly I tell you, I
will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until that day when I
drink it new in the kingdom of God.” When they had sung a hymn,
they went out to the Mount of Olives. (Mark 14: 23-26)
How wise of Jesus to seize the opportunity of a common evening
meal with friends to give us our Eucharist, which we practice to this
day. Whenever and wherever we celebrate it, we can touch on the
eternal mysteries of Jesus’ life and death and resurrection, recreate
the community Jesus loves, and be grateful for the new covenant
Jesus made with us at that time: “This is my blood of the new cove-
nant . . . .“
What is this new covenant? “I will put my teachings in their minds
and write them on their heart!” (Jeremiah 31:31) We recognize the
ongoing, creating God within, and we are not bound by the old, the
law given to Moses or by our own old misunderstandings, judgments,
and fears.
Although Jesus’ earthly life ended soon after this occasion, He does
not leave us . . . He continues His companionship with us, drinking
the wine new in the kingdom of heaven.
Let us take the cup, live into and celebrate the new covenant,
open our hearts to new understanding, increased joy, and love
for all people and creation.
Jane Welch
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