Maundy Thursday
April 14, 2022

Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball

Do not Rush By! ~ 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; John 13:1-17, 31b-35

It is Maundy Thursday, a day often passed over or rushed by. The scripture readings for today hand to us the heart of our faith, the salvation story in a nutshell. Please do not rush by! Stop! Spend awhile intentionally and consciously entering the presence of the Almighty God.

In your mind’s eye, experience that upper room with Jesus and his disciples. Picture the details of that last supper. Feel the resistance of Peter and possibly the others, their vulnerability, their feeling of being out of control, as Jesus takes towel and basin to wash his followers’ feet. Remember and experience the master as a servant, as love personified, giving abundantly, sacrificing, working on behalf of others, and not counting the cost. Hear the words of the new commandment: “Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you should also love one another.”

Oh, do not rush by this day! Remember what Christ has done for you – how your feet have been washed, how you have been fed, how your thirst has been quenched, how you have been healed, how you have been loved even when you or others have thought you unlovable. Give thanks, and recommit to service in Christ’s name, so that another might receive Christ through you. When someone receives your service in Christ’s name, Jesus is received as well.

Reflection: There is shelter, love, and grace in Christ’s service. There is life-transforming power! How might you hand off what you have received through Christ, to another?