Window 9b: The Last Supper

 Window 9b depicts Jesus and the disciples at the last supper.  The panel illustrates the words of institution we hear every service where we receive communion:

"And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.  Likewise also the cup after supper, saying This cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you.  But, behold, the hand of him that betrays me is with me on the table.  And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined:  but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed!" Luke 22:19-22.

Window 9b:  "This is my blood which
 is shed for you" (Luke 22:20)

In the image medallion we see Jesus at the top of the table, larger than the others (signifying his importance), holding a cup in one hand, the other raised to signify that he is speaking.

The table is set with with plates for all, wine, and an overflowing basket of bread, suggesting the plenty that we will find at the Lord's table.

All twelve disciples are at the table, all heads bowed except one who has turned away and appears to be leaving; we see he holds a bag -- this is Judas, the one who betrays Jesus, leaving with his bag of silver.

The image therefore holds together both the unity of the disciples, breaking bread together, and the betrayal of one member, just as the passage quoted above contains both the words of institution and the statement of betrayal.  

In a sense, the image depicts the human condition:  united in Christ through his sacrifice, we are none-the-less prone to sin and betrayal.  Even Peter, devoted as he is, will deny Christ three times before the night is over!

In the symbol medallion is the cup, or chalice, representing "The New Testament in [Christ's] blood."  This image defines the central concept of the new covenant, the sacrifice of one perfect man, the Son of God, for the sins of the world.  

As Paul says, "For when were were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly....But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us...Being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him" (Romans 5:6, 8-9).

Prayer:

Dear Father, thank you for loving us, even as we are sinful and ungodly, and for providing a way for us to approach you through your Son's death and resurrection.  Thank you for making certain we have a place at the table; help us remain strong in Your grace and leave behind our sinful, worldly nature.  Amen.

Window 9:  Gethsemane; the Last Supper

 

 Window Dedication:

This window given in tribute to 
the Reverend R. A. Ofstedal and Family  
whose enthusiasm and inspired leadership
brought this house of God into being.