The Mandate

Sometimes my Protestant raising really comes out; one of those times is Maundy Thursday. Yes, I still call it Maundy Thursday, not Holy Thursday; it gets it’s own special title. For so much happens on that day. The disciples have the Last Supper, Jesus washes their feet, the Eucharist is instituted, Judas goes to betray Jesus, Jesus prays in the garden, Jesus is arrested. It’s the turning point; no going back. And, of course, Jesus gives his mandate (where the name maundy comes from): "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another" (John 13:34).

We are commanded to love higher. We have been taught to love our neighbors and love our enemies. But now to love as Christ loves. And how is that? Totally, unconditionally, sacrificially.

He washes the disciples’ feet. It is the act of a servant, humbling for him and for the disciples who are receiving such an expression.

Judas had he feet washed. That’s all I could think of on Maundy Thursday as I had my feet washed. Jesus washes Judas’ feet, knowing that Judas is handing him over to death. Jesus makes Judas a priest and apostle, along with the other disciples. Jesus breaks bread with Judas, telling him, “This is my body, given up for you.” Judas receives everything from Jesus. And then he runs away to betray him.

Before Jesus gave his life in sacrifice on the Cross, it had already given all of himself. He spent his ministry healing and preaching, calling us to love God and one another. He met thousands and loved each one. Even the Pharisees and money changers he rebuked, he did so in order that they might heal and turn to God. That’s the love we’re commanded, mandated, to imitate.

In return for his outpouring of love and service, Jesus found himself alone, praying in a garden, with friends who couldn’t stay awake long enough to keep him company in his darkest moments.

Following Jesus’ command does not guarantee happiness. Loving someone does not guarantee love in return. Maundy Thursday leads to Good Friday.

But then it leads to Easter. And all will be well. And Love will reign.