Today is Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday and it marks the beginning of the three day celebration of Easter.

“Maundy” is derived from the Latin word “mandatum” which means commandment.

Maundy Thursday is the name given to the day on which Jesus celebrated Passover with his disciples, also known as the Last Supper.

It falls on the Thursday before Good Friday and Christians use it as a time to reflect and remember the Last Supper.

“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.””  (Matthew‬ ‭26:26-29‬ ‭NIV‬‬)

And he took the bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”  In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”  (Luke 22: 19-20 NIV)

During the Last Supper, Jesus commanded his disciples to remember what He was about to do on behalf of all mankind: shed His blood on the cross to pay the debt of our sins. 

This day also commemorates Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. As he did so, he gave them this mandatum, or command:

“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”  (John‬ ‭13:14-15‬ ‭NIV)‬‬

We remember the Last Supper and celebrate it in our churches through Communion.  But, I have not participated in “foot washing” that often in churches.  It is a very humbling act for the one washing and for the one being ministered to.  I have done both and have found it to be a very powerful reminder of how we are to serve one another.

Today, may we not only remember what Jesus did for us in His willing sacrifice of His body as the Spotless Lamb of God…but, may we also remember His example of kneeling before his disciples and washing the dirt and dust from their feet.

Lord, may we serve You and serve others with a humble heart!!