16/04/2025

Maundy Thursday

“I have given you an example so that you may copy what I have done to you.”

Having taught at The Cardinal Vaughan Memorial School for 12 years, I appreciate just how great an educator was Jesus.

Washing his disciples’ feet,  Jesus not only enabled them  - and now us - to see how God is: not a king to be worshipped but a servant to be loved -  but also how we should emulate him in our service to others.

The feet washing is both passive and active.

Passive. We need to avoid Peter’s arrogance and allow God to help us. To live ‘life to the full’ – the life Jesus came to offer us – we need God’s help.  To avoid taking everything for granted, we need to open our heart, accept and be grateful for the gifts God gives us across our PIES: the physical, intellectual emotional and spiritual dimension of our life.

Take advantage of the Sacrament of reconciliation, Holy Communion. Prayer and  Lectio divina: meditate – ponder – the gospel scenes. Get to know The One with  whom you hope to spend eternity.

Recognise God’s presence in people who help you. And thank God for your doctor, dentist, hairdresser – even Amazon deliveries. As well your Sunday masses – and all therein.

Active. Given your age and current abilities, try to see how you serve people in your community – including, of course, your family - as they now are, not as they, and you were, when  younger.