01 April - Maundy Thursday
Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”
John 13:8b
We’ve come to the end of our exploration of Paul’s letters to the church in Thessalonica and now we’re invited, once again, to gather around the table as Jesus celebrates his final Passover Meal here on earth. Seated with him are those who have accompanied him on his three-year adventure from unknown Nazarene to renowned miracle-worker. But who was at the table with Jesus? Tradition suggests that it was just the twelve named apostles, but I suspect there were others, whose names have disappeared in the mists of time. Passover was a family affair, a joyous celebration of the nation’s release from slavery in Egypt, so it’s very likely that friends, supporters, and family members were also present.
One of the things I have learned during my stay here, is just how much Malaysians enjoy their food! When I asked how many meals Malaysians had each day, I was told ‘just one – it lasts all day’! Sadly, COVID-19 has meant that we’ve missed out on a lot of the celebrations and family gatherings that we once took for granted. We haven’t been able to gather around the table with friends and family, and we haven’t been able to gather together as the family of God at the Eucharist. I suspect that Jesus’ friends assumed that they would gather again the following year as usual. But this Passover was different – as the evening meal was being served, Jesus moved from the place of honour at the head of the table to the place of the house servant and knelt at the wash bowl.
Traditionally when we read this passage, we focus on the need for us to serve one another in the way that Jesus served his disciples. But in verse 8 we read, "If I do not wash you, you have no part with me.” So, I wonder if he was also reminding them of the need to kneel regularly and repeatedly at his feet to seek and receive forgiveness of their sins?
As I have learned to kick off my shoes whenever I enter someone’s home here, maybe I also need to learn the importance of regular spiritual cleansing? Each time we gather around the Lord’s Table, we confess our sins and hear the words of forgiveness. But, as we approach Easter, can I suggest that a deeper and more profound confession is called for? If possible, spend time this evening in quiet contemplation. Invite the Holy Spirit to reveal those areas of your life which are not pleasing to God. Listen to what the Spirit says and bring what you hear before your Heavenly Father. Be honest with God and honest with yourself. It is easy to fall into bad spiritual habits, so let this evening be a time of deep spiritual cleansing. Allow God to minister to you as he reveals the dark areas of your life and receive his forgiveness.
Then, together we may journey to the cross unburdened by sin, ready to receive all that Jesus has prepared for us, as we celebrate his glorious resurrection once again this Easter. And let’s look forward, not just to future family gatherings, but also to the time when we will join with the heavenly throng in the eternal celebrations of the New Jerusalem.
PONDER
I wonder what it must have been like for the people at Jesus’ last supper? Were they shocked at his behaviour? Surprised? Or maybe confused? Imagine how you would react if something similar happened to you.
PROMISE
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:19)
PRAYER
Father God, as we remember the events of that first Maundy Thursday, remind us that you are always with us, especially when life shocks, surprises or confuses us. Whatever happens in our lives, may we hold fast to your promises, trust in your unfailing love, and look forward to that day when we will sing your praises for all eternity.
Article by the Reverend Jacqueline Rodwell, an Anglican Priest, ordained in the Church of England. She recently returned to Europe after three years living in Malaysia where she ministered with All Souls’ International Community Church, Kuala Lumpur.