thankful thursday #72, a maundy thursday edition

It is a special Thursday in the Church's calendar, and one with a Lenten service I love.

Today marks the day of the intimate Passover meal that Jesus shared with His disciples on the eve of His crucifixion.

If we're honest with ourselves, we relate to Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus, yet was still seated at the table as His guest of honor.

We remember the command given to His people, to love one another, as He loved us (John 13:34).  And not the flippant kind of love, but the sacrificial, servant, wash-another's-feet kind of love.

We confess, accept forgiveness, and receive communion with the Body of Christ, in remembrance of Him and His sacrifice.

The paraments are carried away from the altar, and the ritual symbolizes the arrest, stripping, and beating Jesus endured before His death.  It is solemn, reverent, gut-wrenching.

I was thankful today for the Maundy Thursday service I attended, and for the opportunity to settle in to its liturgical rhythm.

Be blessed -- and grateful -- this weekend.  He is risen!

God of grace, may we who have celebrated your Son's great love, never forget that despite our unworthiness, He serves and welcomes us.  Remind us always that He was broken that we might be made whole.  May we show in our lives the fruits of His redemption; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns forever.  Amen.

-- Selected prayers, Maundy Thursday service, Independent Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, Alabama