Thursday, April 5, 2012

MAUNDY THURSDAY, APRIL 5, 2012--HOLY WEEK--EVENING MEDITATION


Love That Doesn't Make Any Sense

Scripture:  John 13:1

When Peter’s beloved friend, teacher and One whom he has previously called the “Christ, Son of the Living God” proceeds to take off his outer clothing and wrap a towel around his waist, Peter freaks out. “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” And when Jesus said yes, Peter replies: “No, you shall never wash my feet!” 

Peter thought Jesus’ place was not on the ground. Didn’t Jesus know that the servant of lowest rank was given this task? Didn’t Jesus know that in this culture service and humility were despised as attributes of good slaves? Didn’t Jesus know that acts of humility like this were seen as signs of weakness? Didn’t Jesus know that his position and reputation as a man in society would be seriously damaged from this point on when word got out that he was now in the foot-washing business?

Jesus knew the disciples had no clue why he was humbling himself in this manner. When they recalled this night weeks, months and years after the fact, they still might be scratching their heads about it all. Yet, he did it anyway; he was showing them a love that didn’t make sense.
Jesus knew his act of love would be in no way paid back. Our text never tells us that any of the disciples washed Jesus’ feet. Yet, he washed their feet anyway; he was showing them a love that didn’t make any sense. 

Jesus knew that Judas, the one who would soon hand Jesus over to the chief priests and authorities, was sitting at the table. Soon Jesus would feel the pains of betrayal at their deepest level from Judas’ feet. Yet, Jesus washed Judas' feet anyway; he was showing his disciples a love that didn’t make any sense.

This is the love of Jesus that we are called to show to our community this day. How might a love that doesn't make any sense lead you in service to others?

Prayer:  Servant Lord, we thank you for your great outpouring of love for us both at the basin and on the cross. Teach us to get off our lofty stools and on to the floor, not so that others can abuse us or mistreat us, but so that we can be instruments of your love. AMEN.

 The Reverend Elizabeth Hagan

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http://lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu/