Lk 22:14-23
St. Luke alone recounts two of the cups of the Passover meal. Scott Hahn says there were four cups; the modern seder also has four, but this ceremony wasn't formed until 70 A.D., so apparently the traditional Passover meal that preceded it also had four cups. A quick Google search indicates that these represent the four periods of exile.
At a quick glance, it appears that only Luke records Jesus telling the disciples that he earnestly or eagerly desires to eat this Passover with them. He is clearly talking about the meal itself rather than his own sacrifice, because he says "before I suffer." (15)
Also, St. Luke alone refers to a "new covenant in my blood," as opposed to "my blood of the covenant." Both phrases seem to strike at the same meaning. Too, St. Luke refers to the cup as "poured out for you," whereas Matthew and Mark say "poured out for many." Together these form the current formula of the words of consecration: "poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins."
If I try to expound on the idea of Jesus as the Passover Lamb who must be consumed I am going to fail to do it justice. But when we eat his flesh and drink his blood we are participating in his fulfillment of the ancient covenant which the Lord gave to his people when he delivered them from their slavery, when the blood of the Passover lamb caused the angel of death to pass over them.
It is late, and I am tired, but I am glad to complete my day with these thoughts.
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