Events start to move quickly as Jesus' time gets shorter.
The chief priests and teachers of the law want Jesus silenced. When Judas, one of the Jesus' disciples, approaches them they can’t believe their good fortune. Arrangements are made with Judas and a time waiting begins. Judas is looking for the opportunity to betray Jesus…a time when Jesus is away from the crowds.
Passover arrives and preparations are made for Jesus and the disciples to celebrate it together. The meal begins and in the middle of it, Jesus changes the Passover ‘script’ adding the bits about the bread and the cup. Jesus announces that one of them will betray him.
Then, on this last night they are together, the disciples, disappointingly, start arguing over who is the greatest. Jesus again clarifies that greatness in the kingdom of God is about being ‘as one who serves’.
Jesus warns Simon/Peter that he will deny knowing Jesus. Jesus, also, tells Peter that he has prayed for Peter so that his faith will not fail and that Peter will be able to strengthen the other disciples.
Jesus lets the other disciples know that they need to be ready. He tells them to sell any cloaks they have to get swords. The disciples report that they have two swords already in their possession. Jesus has heard enough.
Definite shadows are falling on this night of celebration.
