Here a New Testament scholar combines a study of the Greek text of Matthew 26-28 with devotional reflections that help us understand and appreciate the Lord's Supper. The book may be used to prepare communion meditations and Lenten sermons. It is especially useful for devotional reading by both clergy and laypersons.An excerpt:Many innocent people have been undone by conspiracy in high places. Jesus and the martyrs of the church have faced what many face today: injustice, oppression, the jealousy of petty officials, conspiracy. Only one act in all of human history could overcome such littleness. In only one place will we find consolation and solace in the face of overwhelming injustice. Only one table is large enough to accommodate a meal for both the oppressors and the oppressed. And we gather there in this moment.

Bonnie Thurston is a native of southern West Virginia, and lives near Wheeling, WV, having resigned the William F. Orr Professorship in New Testament at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in 2002. She earned the BA in English from Bethany College, and MA and PhD degrees from the University of Virginia. Bonnie has written or edited eighteen theological books and many articles, has contributed to reference works in New Testament and taught at the university level for thirty years. Her scholarly interests in New Testament include the gospels of Mark and John, the Deutero-Pauline canon and, more generally, the history of Christian Spirituality and prayer. She was ordained in 1984 and has served as co-pastor, pastor, or interim of five churches and twice in overseas ministries. She is an experienced spiritual director and retreat leader. Her poetry frequently appears in religious periodicals, and she has authored five volumes of verse. Bonnie is a widow, an avid reader, gardener and cook, enjoys classical music and loves the West Virginia hills.