Holy Thursday is sometimes called Maundy Thursday. It comes from the Latin word "Mandatum" which means commandment. Jesus told his disciples, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35)
The events of Maundy Thursday set things in motion for Jesus’ trial and crucifixion the following day. Sometime early Thursday, Jesus and His disciples made their final trip from Bethany back to Jerusalem. When they arrived, Peter and John were sent to make preparations in the Upper Room so Jesus and His disciples could eat the Passover meal.
Passover is a celebration of how God brought the Israelites out of Egyptian slavery. The tenth, and final plague God sent upon the land of Egypt, was to kill all the firstborn of humans and animals alike. God told the Israelites to sacrifice a spotless lamb and mark their doorposts with its blood and, by doing so, the curse would "pass over" each home.
Several times during Jesus’ ministry, He foretold His purpose on Earth. When Jesus broke the bread and shared the cup, He was explaining how His body and blood would be shed for the sins of all who call Jesus Lord.
"While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” (Matthew 26)
During the Last Supper, Jesus calls out Judas Iscariot for what he is about to do. He leaves the Upper Room shortly thereafter. After the meal is finished, Jesus and His disciples make their way to the Garden of Gethsemane...
Jesus knew his destiny. He knew His mission. He knew why He was sent into this world. He knew the magnitude of what was to come. He knew you. He knew me.