Maundy Thursday
Read John 13: 1-17, 31b-35
In our United Methodist Hymnal we have a wonderful hymn that illustrates this passage from the fourth gospel, Jesu, Jesu (432). The text from John and the hymn speak to the task of a household servant and of the example of Jesus as one of humble service…an experience of humility. It is on this day that we remember the upper room gathering that gave us the mandatum nova, the new commandment to love one another as Jesus has shown love…the way of humble service.
“Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples---when they see the love you have for each other.” (The Message)
On this holy night there is an air of care and hospitality, a showing forth of unconditional love in an act so simple yet so profound. As we move ever closer to Jerusalem, ever closer to the cross, let us be reminded of our responsibility as followers of Christ, to be the example of servant ministry , not just for our friends, not just for our fellow congregants, not just for those who are like us or who like us.
And in the remembrance, let us commit to go to “neighbors near and far, rich and poor”, neighbors of any persuasion, serving from the position of a kneeling heart, with our time and talents, our gifts and prayers and our humble service. It is our Wesleyan heritage to be about social holiness…let us name it and claim it as we prepare to receive anew the gift of salvation offered on the cross. With a humble spirit, let us pray for the courage to love as Jesus loved.
Judy May
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