Maundy Thursday Year A RCL April 21, 2011
Jesus takes the bread, blesses it, breaks it, and gives it to them and to us. In the process, he places everything in a new dimension. This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.
In the same way, he takes the cup of wine, says the familiar blessing, but then adds, “This is my blood, which is shed for you and for many, for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”
Jesus takes this meal of bread and wine, which is so familiar to his friends, and makes it into a way of calling him into their midst. These most simple elements of bread and wine become himself, His energy. His inspiration for them. And by receiving them. We are fed and transformed into his likeness.
“I am among you as one who serves.” He takes a towel and water and performs the most human service. He washes their feet. We wash each other’s feet this evening to symbolize that we want to follow him in this servanthood, this caring for each other in his name.
Even as he is about to be betrayed and put to death, Jesus shows us the depth of his love. Blessed Jesus, call us into your servanthood and be known to us in the breaking of the bread.
Amen
Filed under: Reverend Janet Brown, Sermons |
Grace Episcopal Church (Sheldon, VT) 