"Mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos."
"A new commandment I give unto you: That you love one another, as I have loved you."
--The Gospel According to John 13:34
Dear Friends:
Today is Maundy Thursday. The word "maundy" comes from the verb "to command." We designate Thursday in Holy Week this way since this is the night where Jesus instituted the Holy Eucharist and gave us a "new commandment." The new commandment? To love one another. He demonstrated this new commandment by washing the feet of his disciples; to show that love means service.
Worship has looked very different this year--both in schools and in churches. Few, if any, will be able to fully participate in the ceremonial foot washing that makes the Maundy Thursday liturgy so unique. Both as a priest and a parishioner, I miss not being able to participate in the liturgy compared to years past. However, we can all take a moment and reflect upon what we are being called to do in light of this new commandment.
Who are we being called to serve?
Whose feet are we being called to wash?
How have we responded to the call to serve this past year?
In what way is our leadership "love in action?"
My hope is that you will be able to take a moment or two during your busy day to reflect upon this new commandment given to us by Jesus and to think about how it applies to all of our lives. Please know of my prayers for your and your community as you prepare for the Paschal feast!
Stay safe,
David+
