We’re right in the middle of Holy Week: between Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey, and the moment that the crowd turns on Him, His disciples scatter, and our Lord is taken to the cross. Between Palm Sunday and Easter, the tension surrounding Jesus of Nazareth escalates to the breaking point. There’s so much going on, but Jesus gets these private moments with His disciples, during which He gives some final commands.
In this divided environment, between the shouts of “Hosanna” and the shouts of “Crucify Him,” there’s a day known by the Church as Maundy Thursday. Maundy means “commandment” or “mandate,” and it commemorates the new commandment Jesus gives to His disciples after He washes their feet:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another” (John 13:34).
“Love” is a word that we have many definitions for, but Jesus leaves us no room to question what He means: “Just as I have loved You.” Just as I have washed your feet. Just as I have welcomed you. Just as I give my life for you. Love one another. Forgive one another just as I will forgive those who put me on the cross. Bear with one another, just as I will never leave you or forsake you.
Receiving and enjoying the love of God is so important, but it’s not just for us to enjoy. That’s the sort of love we’re supposed to give to one another. Christianity is not a selfish or self-centered faith. It’s not simply introspective nor private. It’s meant to be lived out, in love, to everyone we meet.
You say “how?” How can we possibly duplicate the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God? How could we hope to give a love that matches the love of the Lord? I know how to show basic kindness, but the love of the Savior?
With God, nothing is impossible. This is one of those not-impossible things. The Holy Spirit can give us the sort of 1st Corinthians 13 love that’s patient, kind, humble, self-sacrificing, and never failing. Just like the love of Jesus. He’s our model. He’s our example.
During this week leading up to Easter, follow the pattern of Christ. As we contemplate the love of the Savior, find ways to reflect that to those around you. Take time in your afternoon to speak words of kindness to someone who’s experiencing shame, like Jesus did at a well in Samaria. Make meals for the people around you who are hungry, like Jesus did for the 5,000. Care for the children. Pray for the sick and the lost and the oppressed, just like Jesus. Follow Him.