As Jesus approached the final hours before His crucifixion, every detail unfolded with divine purpose. Preparing the Passover, the Passover meal—rooted in God’s deliverance of Israel—would become the setting where Jesus revealed the depth of His mission. Matthew 26:17–19 invites us into this moment of obedience, preparation, and fulfillment.
📖 “On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?’ He replied, ‘Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, “The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.”’ So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.” (Matthew 26:17–19, NIV)
In these verses, Jesus reveals that His path to the cross is not chaotic, accidental, or driven by the plans of men—it is appointed. The disciples’ question about preparation leads to a clear instruction, showing that even in the shadow of betrayal and death, Jesus remains fully in control.
The Passover table was not chosen at random; it was selected by Christ Himself. The lamb, the bread, the cup—all were symbols He would transform as He instituted the Lord’s Supper, pointing forward to His sacrifice for the sins of the world.
Their obedience in preparation reflects what every believer is called to: trusting the direction of Jesus, even when the full meaning has not yet been revealed.
It reveals Jesus’ authority. He directs the place, the timing, and the purpose. The cross was not imposed on Him—He walked toward it willingly.
It shows the importance of obedience. The disciples follow His instructions without hesitation, setting the stage for one of the most meaningful moments in Christian history.
It connects the Old Covenant to the New. The Passover celebrated Israel’s deliverance; Jesus would now fulfill a far greater deliverance—freedom from sin and death.
It teaches preparation of the heart. Just as the disciples prepared a room, we prepare our hearts to meet with Christ in remembrance and obedience.
Follow Jesus’ direction even when the path is unclear. His word guides us step by step.
Honor sacred moments. Whether communion, prayer, or serving others—approach them with intention and reverence.
Trust God’s timing. Jesus said, “My appointed time is near,” reminding us that God’s plan unfolds with perfect precision.
Prepare your heart for His presence. Obedience opens the door for deeper fellowship with the Lord.
In preparing the Passover, the disciples played a small but meaningful role in God’s eternal plan. Their obedience created the space where Jesus would reveal the New Covenant through His body and blood.
📖 “On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?’ He replied, ‘Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, “The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.”’ So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.” (Matthew 26:17–19, NIV)
✨ Preparation, obedience, and trust—these remain essential for every follower of Christ. When we respond to His direction, we join Him in the unfolding story of redemption.
