Scripture Reading:
“So when he had washed their feet and put his garments back on and reclined at table again, he said to them, ‘Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me “teacher” and “master,” and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet. I have given you a model to follow so that as I have done for you, you should also do.’”
—John 13:12-15 (NABRE)
On Maundy Thursday, we enter into the most sacred hours of Holy Week, remembering the Last Supper, the institution of the Eucharist, and Jesus’ command to love and serve one another. The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning “commandment,” referring to Jesus’ instruction: “I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.” (John 13:34).
In the Upper Room, Jesus does something unexpected—He kneels before His disciples and washes their feet. The Master becomes the servant. He shows them that true greatness is found in humility, and true love expresses itself in service. In doing so, He calls us to imitate Him.
Maundy Thursday invites us to reflect on our own call to love and serve. How do we treat those around us? Do we put others before ourselves, or do we seek recognition and status? Jesus does not merely tell us to love—He shows us how. He gives us the Eucharist, His very Body and Blood, as a sign of His total self-gift. Every time we receive the Eucharist, we are reminded of this love and called to live it out in our daily lives.
Tonight, as the Church enters into the solemn hours of the Passion, let us stay with Jesus in prayer, just as He asked His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane: “Remain here and keep watch with me.” (Matthew 26:38). May we not turn away, but instead, open our hearts to His love and follow His example of humble service.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, on this holy night, You showed us the depth of Your love through humble service and the gift of the Eucharist. Teach me to love as You love, to serve as You serve. Give me the grace to kneel before others in humility, to put their needs before my own, and to remain close to You in this sacred time. Strengthen my heart to stay with You in prayer and to follow You faithfully to the Cross. Amen.
Reflection Question:
How can I follow Jesus’ example of love and service in my daily life? What small act of humility and kindness can I do today?
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