The scripture readings for this reflection can be found at http://usccb.org/bible/readings/040920-lord-s-supper.cfm
On Holy Thursday we commemorate the institution of the Holy Eucharist by our Lord at the Last Supper. But in the gospel assigned for Holy Thursday, from the gospel of John, chapter 13, we see no mention of the institution of the Eucharist. Instead we see Jesus washing the feet of the disciples, including that of Judas, who the Lord knew would soon betray him.
In the gospel, as the Lord approaches Peter, Peter responds in his usual stubbornness, questioning the actions of Jesus. Jesus says very little about the meaning of his act, other than that they are to do it to others, as well. The significance of the act itself tells his early followers and us all we need to know. In this act, our Lord is teaching us that we are to be servants to each other, in imitation of Him.
Jesus, in all humility, washes the feet of all the disciples, including Judas, reminding us that we are to serve also those who hurt and betray us. With Peter and his stubbornness, we learn that we can and should accept the help of others who feel called to help us in our need.
Jesus, in all humility, washes the feet of all the disciples, including Judas, reminding us that we are to serve also those who hurt and betray us. With Peter and his stubbornness, we learn that we can and should accept the help of others who feel called to help us in our need.
We are called to live our lives as servants to one another, as Jesus was servant to those at the Last Supper. His servant heart, his sacrifice, and his love for us is revealed every time we receive His Body and Blood in Holy Communion.
During this time of being away from Holy Communion as a result of the social distancing we are required to do in order to conquer the coronavirus, let us pray for healing of our society from this plague that is preventing us from receiving our Lord in Holy Communion, And then when we return to the regular reception of Holy Communion, let us be grateful to Our Lord for His presence in this Sacrament. Further, let us be grateful for the care and aid of our medical people caring for those suffering from the coronavirus. They, like Jesus, are unselfishly serving others. Let us remember them in our prayers over the next few days leading up to the death and resurrection of our Lord on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
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