Tonight, my church, along with many others, will celebrate "Maundy Thursday."
Maundy Thursday is the day that commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus and the disciples, in which two particular sacraments or ordinances were observed: Foot Washing and the breaking of the bread in the Last Supper. So, every year, on the Thursday before Good Friday, we wait on each other, just as Jesus did his disciples, as we partake in communion and then wash each other's feet.
Many people will wrinkle their noses in disdain or disgust when I mention that I'm going to a "foot washing service," because for many, the mere thought of having someone either touch or see their feet sends them into a panic. But I assure you, it is not a time for laughter ... no one tickles your feet ... no one critiques your toes ... no one turns their nose up in disgust. It is, in fact, a special moment in which we get to kneel before our brothers or sisters (men and women break off accordingly) and serve them in humility and with love. It's just beautiful ... We sing songs of praise and worship ... meaningful hymns ... we share special thoughts, prayer and scripture ... and we love each other. There is no other service I can think of that is quite as intimate as this one.
Friends, I hope that each one of you has an opportunity at some time to attend this type of service. If you do, but feel squeamish or hesitant, trust me when I say, you will be blessed beyond measure. I encourage you to go in faith.
And finally, I would consider it an honor if each one of you in the grand blogosphere circle of women would, metaphorically speaking, allow me to wash your feet and serve you communion.
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." John 13:34
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Maundy Thursday
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6 comments:
I've only been part of a footwashing ceremony once, and it was a powerful blessing in my life. I pray you will come away with a new blessing tonight, too, dear GiBee.
Saw my first one of these on New Years Eve 2004. Was awed to tears despite not being able to participate (was nursing Flicka who had just fallen asleep in my arms).
Just wanted to say - I was self conscious then but would step out in faith in a heatbeat if offered the opportunity again!
I've heard of these services but have never been to one. May you be blessed at yours.
Beautiful, GiBee. Our church in Baton Rouge did a foot washing service every year, and it took my breath away.
Blessings to you and your sweet family....
We just talked about foot washing
last night at church. I belong to a small Baptist. About 4 months ago we had a foot washing service. You should have seen the looks on visitors faces when we started. It was priceless. One man said afterwards if we had pulled out the snakes --he would have run.
It was my second time participating but it was the first at this church. I was the most spiritually intimate experience. You have to do it to get the true meaning of what Jesus did. And the fact that He washed even Judas' feet--it made a huge statement.
I was raised in a church that participated in this act. One of the women actually took her hair down and dried her sister's feet (they would pair up). You talk about a mind-blowing service. They would continue to sing and shout and praise the Lord. When it would start to calm, you could hear the men upstairs in the sanctuary singing and shouting, and it would start up again.
The church we attend now also participates in this. Theirs is much more calm than that of the first church.
The thought of Christ serving His disciples in this manner is awe inspiring. I try to remember that the custom was for the lowest servant to wash the feet of anyone who would come into the home. How Christ humbled Himself - it makes me ashamed that I don't serve Him better.
Blessings to you and yours this Easter.
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