Luke 22:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

He directs His disciples to a ‘strange’ home because neither He nor His followers possessed their own dwelling; otherwise, He would have celebrated the Passover in a disciple’s residence. Consider the state of their poverty! He instructs them to approach an unfamiliar man, to demonstrate His willingness to embrace suffering. Had He desired to avoid suffering, He could have inspired this unknown individual to welcome both Himself and His disciples, and He could have influenced the Jews according to His will.

However, some might inquire why He did not specifically mention this man to those He appointed. Instead of saying, “Go to a certain individual, whoever he may be, and prepare for us a Passover in his dwelling,” He simply provided a sign: “a man carrying a pitcher of water.” What can we say in response? Notably, Judas the betrayer had already conspired with the religious leaders to hand Him over and remained among them, waiting for the right moment. While he outwardly professed the affection expected of a disciple, he allowed the adversary to infiltrate his heart and was tormented by the guilt of betraying our shared Redeemer Christ.

He had no place to call home, nor did they, having already abandoned all.

The disciples of Jesus initiate preparations for the fulfillment of the law's commands regarding the Passover lamb even before the feast itself, before noon on the 13th of Nisan. They inquire of the Lord, "In which house should we arrange for the Passover meal?" During His time on Earth, the Lord Jesus pointed out that He had nowhere to lay His head (Matt. 8:20). He possessed no residence or property in Jerusalem, the place designated by the law for the observance of the Passover (Deuteronomy 16:5, 6). As a result, they needed to seek out lodging with some local residents of Jerusalem, who were expected by their faith to provide hospitality for the Passover to those who lacked a home in the city.

Although the other apostles were unaware of the circumstances, the Lord was fully aware and patiently awaited the appointed time. He anticipated departing from His disciples before the anticipated feast, leading Him to confer unique importance to their final meal together—one that would mirror the Passover meal of His Jewish heritage, while also establishing a new significance as the Christian Eucharist replacing the old covenant meal. On the thirteenth day of Nisan, He likely spent His final hours in Bethany with His followers. However, that morning, He instructed Peter and John to go to Jerusalem and inform the host of His desire to prepare for the Passover celebration.

Preparation of the Passover for Jesus and the Disciples The disciples Peter and John inquired of Jesus, “Where would You like us to prepare the Passover meal? Please instruct us, and we will make the arrangements” (Mark 14:12). Preoccupied with thoughts of His approaching crucifixion, Jesus appeared to not fully heed their request, replying, "Indeed, go and prepare for us to eat the Passover." They pressed Him further, asking, "What are Your instructions for preparing it?" - Where could the Passover be arranged for Christ, who had no place to rest His head? Does the location even hold significance? - “Go,” He instructed them, “into the city (specifically Jerusalem); as you enter, you will encounter a man carrying a water jar; follow him.

The Savior instructed the apostles Peter and John to proceed to Jerusalem, revealing to them a significant sign. He indicated that upon reaching the entrance to the gate, they would encounter a servant carrying a pitcher of water drawn from one of the springs for the evening meal. By following him, they would arrive at a house, where they were to inform the owner of the Master's desire to celebrate the Passover with His disciples within that residence. This owner, traditionally believed to be Joseph of Arimathea, would immediately offer them an upper room that was already prepared, complete with the necessary tables and bedding. They discovered everything as Jesus had foretold, and on that same day, they made ready for the Passover.