It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go the the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. John 13:1

This is a beautiful story in which Jesus graphically shows his disciples how much he loves them. Jesus proves his love by serving. This day is memorialized traditionally on the Thursday before Easter - Maundy Thursday. Most scholars agree that the English word Maundy in that name for the day is derived through Middle English and Old French mandé, from the Latin mandatum, the first word of the phrase "Mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos" (A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another). This statement was made by Jesus in the Gospel of John 13:34. Jesus is explaining to the Apostles the significance of his action of washing their feet. He's saying very clearly and graphically, this is how I love you and this is how you should love one another.

The full extent of Jesus love is his willingness to serve. The pressure on Jesus was immense. His final hours were gruelling. Yet, he is not thinking about his own needs, but the needs of his followers. He teaches them and manifests love and compassion and concern for them to the end.

Jesus is moved to do this by an awareness of his own authority. John says, "Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God..." (verse 3). God the Father have given Jesus authority over all things and Jesus serves. He washes his followers feet - even the feet of Judas, his betrayer.

Jesus concludes this teaching with this powerful command, "I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them" (verses 16-17). Notice the blessing isn't in knowing this truth but in practicing this truth. We are blessed when we serve others, when we love each other as Christ loves us.

Actions speak louder than words. Maundy Thursday teaches us to serve, to stoop, to be a towel wearer and to love people to the end. Just like our Lord.

Pastor Tim