THE LAST SUPPER.
When the disciples entered the upper room all had neglected to assume the office of servant in preparation for the meal. They were disputing as to who should be the greatest in the kingdom. (Luke 22:24.) Jesus therefore arose from the table and performed the act of cleansing.
Brown, Plate 133, has portrayed the incident wonderfully well. The dialogue with Peter is just finished. (John 13:6-10.)
Da Vinci, Plate 131, has excelled all others in rendering the effects of the announcement Jesus made shortly afterwards, when they were at table again, "One of you shall betray me." Some of the disciples wonder (John 13:22), some ask, "Is it I?" (Mark 14:19.) Peter whispers to John to inquire who it is. (John 13:24.) The face of Judas alone is in shadow and inscrutable. Presently Judas will go out to the conspiring chief priests. (John 13:27-30.)
When Judas had departed, Jesus said, "Now is the Son of man glorified." (John 13:31.) "And as they were eating, Jesus took bread and blessed, and break it."
Bida, Plate 132, gives a graphic picture of the moment of blessing the bread. "This is my body which is given for you," he said (Luke 22:19). "This do in remembrance of me."
