Happy Maundy Thursday. And that’s not a typo, in case you didn’t know. And it’s a little bit strange to use the word “happy” with it. But it makes total sense in the big picture.
So, what’s the Maundy Thursday big picture?
I’m glad you asked. Oops, that was me. But I’m glad I asked. Because it gives me a chance to answer. So, why don’t I go ahead and do that instead of talking about the question and who asked it? Ok, I will. Just as soon as I finish this conversation with myself.
Now, in Christian teaching, Maundy Thursday is the day before Good Friday, also known as Holy Friday. And it’s important to remember because it was the last day and evening Jesus would spend in direct connection with His disciples. Even non-believers have probably heard of the Last Supper. That was on Maundy Thursday.
The word “Maundy” is actually derived from the Latin word “mandatum.” And that Latin word means “commandment” or “mandate.” And that evening Jesus told his followers about a new commandment. A commandment to love one another “as I have loved you.”
But the awesome thing about Jesus is that He’s not just a do-as-I-say kind of teacher. He showed one of the most ultimate acts of humility, when He commanded them to love one another, by washing their feet.
Let that sink in.
The Creator of Heaven and Earth and all living things.
Washed. Their. Feet. And they wore sandals back then. Sandals. With plenty of openings to let the elements in. So they could get some truly dirty feet. AND, Jesus knew what was coming the next day. And instead of asking to be pampered, He did the pampering.
Hmm, for some strange reason the song “Amazing Grace” just popped into my head.
Anyway…
Tomorrow starts what some know as the Easter Triduum. That’s just a fancy-schmancy way of saying the three-day period that leads to Resurrection Sunday.
You don’t live under the Jewish law (at least I hope you don’t). So, you’re not required to wash anybody’s feet this evening. But maybe, now that I’ve shared the term “Maundy Thursday” with you, this day will be a reminder to be humble and serve others. I hope so. And I mean that for me, too.
So, Happy Maundy Thursday.
May your humble heart rejoice,
Thinking about the three days
He endured to give you choice
To live with Him forever
Or apart from Him alone.
One choice fills your heart with love.
One choice turns your heart to stone.
Now, why waste time going online to find all my really refreshing Rhymes and Reasons? Just jump on the The FunderFlash. And I’ll send them directly to your inbox. Do it now, and I’ll send you some songs and some other surprises: https://www.TonyFunderburk.com
Stay tuned,
