Holy Thursday is upon us – the mystery of the Paschal Lamb is near. This night began with the most humbling and powerful events – Jesus washing the feet of the disciples (including Judas).

I hear His words commanding us to love one another as He has loved us – to wash one another with waters of grace and forgiveness.

At the end, Mark reminds us that they sang a hymn and went out into the night (Mark 14:26). What hymn? Psalm 113 through Psalm 118 are the Great Hallel Psalms which were used at various points in the Passover.

Let me share some of the Hallel and I want you to imagine Jesus singing these words as he heads out to the Garden to pray and be arrested.

Psalm 116: 3 The snares of death encompassed me; the pangs of Sheol laid hold on me; I suffered distress and anguish. 

4 Then I called on the name of the LORD: “O LORD, I pray, deliver my soul!” 

5 Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; our God is merciful. 

Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints. 

Then hear these powerful words from Psalm 118 extolling the steadfast love of the Lord:

1 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! 

2 Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” 

3 Let the house of Aaron say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” 

4 Let those who fear the LORD say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” 

5 Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free. 

6 The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? 

7 The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me. 

8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.