Maundy Thursday

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
John 13:34-35

On Thursday night, Jesus gives His followers a mandate that redefines their entire mission.

Before His arrest, Jesus gathers His closest friends in an upper room for a final meal. He pours water into a basin, grabs a towel, and begins washing the disciples' feet. In their culture, only the lowest slave handles the filthy feet of house guests.

The Master takes the posture of a servant.

Jesus uses this physical washing to illustrate the spiritual cleansing His blood will soon provide. Following this powerful demonstration, He delivers the new mandate.

Loving your neighbor was an old rule. The radical new element is the standard of that love.

Jesus commands us to love others exactly as He loved us.

We are called to adopt the posture of a humble servant.

Jesus makes it clear that this specific brand of love will be the ultimate proof of our faith.

Our faith cannot be a private secret. The world needs to see the fruit of our belief.

People will recognize us as followers of Christ by the selfless, forgiving, and humble love we show to those around us.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for facing the cross alone to secure our salvation. You took the absolute lowest place to wash us clean. Give us the courage and humility to love others exactly as You have loved us. Strip away our pride and selfishness. Help us to serve the people around us with a radical love that clearly points them to You. Amen.