Maundy Thursday

Holy Thursday, Maundy Thursday, no matter which you call it, it's the day of the Last Supper. The last meal that Jesus would eat with his disciples or anyone for that matter. Maundy comes from the Latin word mandatum which means "commandment". At the Last Supper, Jesus gave the new commandment to love one another as he had loved them. Before this last meal together Jesus did the unthinkable. He got down on his knees and washed the disciples feet.


Now there are people who think that the time of washing feet has passed since we don't wear sandals and walk around all day in the dirt. I happen to be one of those people who don't go with that train of thought and here's why. There is something so humbling about having your feet washed, the barriers come down and our hearts are opened to the simpleness of a service done for us. Most people don't have pretty feet, and in fact they would prefer you not to see them, let alone touch them! When Peter had a fit and told Jesus he would not wash his feet Jesus told him, Then you will have no part of me. 


I was reminded of this on Monday night when my Spiritual Exercise class combined with the other 2 classes and had a Holy Week celebration. Sister Rachel, who is 76 years old, got down on her knees and washed our feet. When the master, leader, director, whoever, get's down on their knees and washes your feet, you get what Jesus was saying about love one another. It really is that simple and I believe, that important.


So tonight as you go to your services, remember that this was the night that Jesus broke the bread and poured the wine that would forever change the way we are! He became, for us life, and life abundantly. He showed us how to love, forgive and serve each other in a way that changed everything, forever!