What happens when Jesus interrupts an ordinary meal to become a servant? On this Maundy Thursday, we witness a profound moment that transforms how we understand love and service.
There's a striking difference between choosing to serve and choosing to be a servant. Most of us serve when it fits our schedule, when we gain something from it, or when we're in control. But Jesus demonstrates something radical when he wraps a towel around his waist and washes the grimy, dirty feet of his disciples. He's not just performing an act of service – he's embodying the very nature of servanthood.
Why does Peter resist so strongly? Perhaps because our greatest fear is being fully seen. The disciples sit around that table with hearts full of contradiction – one will betray, another will deny, all will run away. Deep down, each wonders, "Is it me? Does he know about my doubts, my secret addictions, my regrets?" We fear exposure will leave us unloved. Yet Jesus insists on washing Peter's feet because he knows that soon, when Peter denies him three times and feels utterly ashamed, he'll need this memory. He'll need to remember that Jesus loved him fully – not just his presentable parts, but his dirty, grimy feet too.
This extraordinary love forms the foundation of Jesus' mandate: "Love one another as I have loved you." Before we can fulfill this command, we must first grasp its revelation about ourselves – that we are fully, completely loved by Jesus. When you approach the communion table tonight, come like these excited fifth graders, with hands wide open, hearts wide open, ready to receive love that reaches into your darkest places and transforms how you love others. Will you allow yourself to be loved this way, and will you extend this love to a world desperately needing it?

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