When evening came, Jesus sat at the table with the twelve disciples.
This verse describes that exalted and mysterious moment when Jesus sat with his disciples for the last time, before his sufferings and crucifixion. The phrase “when evening came” is symbolic: it points not only to the end of the day, but also to the end of an era in history; the night of the Old Covenant was drawing near to its conclusion. Jesus takes his place at the table as a teacher, but also as a sacrifice, ready to give his body for the salvation of humanity. The Twelve symbolize fullness: the twelve tribes of Israel and the unity of the community of the New Covenant. This supper becomes a moment of deep mystery, where ordinary food is transformed into a sign of holiness, as a foreshadowing of Holy Communion. In this short sentence a peaceful majesty is hidden: the Lord, knowing his approaching suffering, sits at the table with love and peace, as a gentle Lamb ready to be offered for the salvation of the world.