Forward Movement is an official, non-profit agency of the Episcopal Church whose mission is to create compelling content for Christian living. Since 1935 we have published the quarterly devotional Forward Day by Day, as well as pamphlets, booklets, and books that encourage and nourish people in their lives of prayer and faith.
THURSDAY, April 1 Maundy Thursday
John 13:1-17, 31b-35. I have set you an example.
Contrary to our usual belief, Maundy Thursday does not get its name from the institution of the Last Supper. Rather it refers to the command of love which Jesus gave to his disciples (John 15:12-17), and which he acted out for them as he washed their feet.
John's Gospel is the only one which omits any reference to the institution of the eucharist, but puts in its place this demonstration of humble service. Normally the lowliest slave in the household would be given this task. By taking it on himself, Jesus dramatizes the place of service. James and John had desired the positions of honor on his right hand and his left, but Jesus made his own place of honor as he ministered to the group. Jesus was always going off, doing the unexpected.
A feeling of oneness and concern for people characterized the life of Jesus and the Christian church during those early centuries, but even the first apostles had to learn that at the table of Christ there is no right or left hand, no head table. The communion of Christ is a circle where all people gather around on the same level, the only distinction being the manner in which they respond to the needs of others, in laying aside their dignity and status to be of help. (1971)
PRAY for the Diocese of Buye (Burundi)
Ps 116:1, 10-17; Exodus 12:1-4(5-10)11-14; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
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This day has marvelous significance for me without any of these semantics. Jesus Christ is real. The foot washing ceremony celebrated tonight in many churches pulls us through the veil and into his presence.