Maundy Thursday
Exodus 12:1-14 Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 John 13:1-17, 31-35
Maundy Thursday is the beginning of the Triduum. It initiates a time of watching, waiting and contemplating as we enter into the commemoration of the mystery of our redemption. The gift of love in the Sacrament of Christ’s Body and Blood is the focus.{2} Today our gospel reading is not about the institution narrative, but it is just as transformative.
John 13:12 “Do you know what I have done to you?”
After the Last Supper, Jesus humbles himself to us. Washing the feet of guests is not
the same as what Jesus is doing to us. Hosts wash guests’ feet in honor, part of the
culture and tradition. Jesus – the proclaimed and revealed incarnation of Almighty God – transforms us. That’s what he has done to us.
John 13:15 “ . . . do as I have done to you.”
To do as is to take on the state of being of the one speaking. To do like is to act
similarly. Jesus commands us to take on his state of being, “you love one another”
(John 13:34b) “just as I have loved you . . .” (John 13:35b).
Jesus transforms us to be humble, recognize we are created to be servant leaders and be the incarnate Christ’s heart, mind, and soul on earth as God glorifies in heaven. We are to set aside egos, quid pro quo instincts, and live as Christ commands.
Maundy Thursday’s foot washing is an outward and visible sign of our doing as Christ – loving one another. I love you so much that God’s will is as I will do. The water is warm; come let me be as Christ to you.
-The Rev. Beth Hendrix
2 Paraphrased A Priest’s Handbook 1998
The Carpenter's Nail 