Maundy Thursday
He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord are you going to wash my feet?"
Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand...unless I wash you, you have no part with me."
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
John 13:6, 8b and John 13:34, 35
The Last Supper is usually our focus on this day. It comforts us. Let's remember Jesus' words spoken during that bittersweet gathering with his beloved friends--vitally important words about a spiritual washing, and a new commandment.
In John 13:7, Jesus says as He washes the disciples' feet, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." Indicative of His divine genius, our Lord used this act to speak to them and to us long after his death and resurrection. What a striking and indelible image for the Master to wash the feet of his servants! Not one easily forgotten, but rather pondered, recorded, and read by generations to come. The Bible is a living book, indeed!
Prayer
Dearest God,
Thank you for continually sending us your Word by way of the prophets, in the man Jesus, and through the Holy Spirit sent to abide in us. It is continually revealed in the holy scriptures, and through tradition and experiences. How wondrous of You and your love for us, so huge that you always have and always will call to us by so many means! We pray for open hearts to receive You and for open ears to hear You. Guide us along the path that begins with loving one another in community and winds it way throughout all the world's peoples.
Amen
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