The answer is: Sung a hymn

Mark 14:26

After that final meal together, the mood switched from somber to celebratory as Jesus and His disciples lifted their voices in song. This act of singing a hymn wasn’t just a casual encore. It was deeply rooted in Jewish tradition! Hymns of praise were often used during Passover celebrations, like this one they had just shared. By embracing song in such a poignant moment, they infused an age-old ritual with their own fresh experience of love, communion, and impending sacrifice.

The hymn they sang likely derived from the Hallel, a collection of Psalms (specifically Psalms 113-118) traditionally sung during major Jewish festivals. Picture the scene: a group of friends, empowered and emotional, harmonizing the prayers of their ancestors, a soundtrack to their impending trials.

Interestingly, Hebrews 2:12 also reflects on Jesus singing praise with His followers, illustrating a shared bond. Singing has an uncanny ability to unite voices and hearts, even amidst doubt and fear—a notion familiar, even today.

Think about how music has transformed in various cultures since then, yet the power of a simple hymn resonates across eras. Each time believers gather in song, it echoes that same spirit of faith and community present at the Last Supper. In one moment together, despair and hope intertwined, laying the foundation for their journey to the Mount of Olives, not with sorrow, but in a powerful embrace of joy and unity.