Tonight we were given the call to serve. Tonight we heard the words of Jesus and more importantly, beheld his actions. We allowed the image of his loving service to his friends guide us in worship as we bent down to wash one another’s feet. It was so good to see most all people come forward, and to see all enter into the experience. This liturgical ritual serves as a reminder that we care called to service. More importantly, we are called to loving service.
I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.
Jesus after washing the feet of the disciples gives them a mandate… A command, a mandatum. John 13:34 from above as found in the Vulgate reads, ‘mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos ut et vos diligatis invicem.’ It is from these words that we get the phrase Maunday Thursday.
My heart is full. Having my feet washed and washing another’s feet is a moving experience. As Cathy washed my feet, I was physically and spiritually reminded that I am loved. Watching the altar cleared of all decorative hangings etc while hearing psalm 22 sung, is haunting. Now I sit in stillness in preparation for Good Friday. It is quiet. St Aidan’s now waits to hold its solemn observance of the day at Calvary. It is dark, but I know I am held in love.
Stay with me …..
It is dark… the dark hour may be upon us…. but we must look forward.
We must “keep breathing. Because tomorrow the sun will rise. Who knows what the tide could bring.”
It's Just Kevin's Corner 
Thank you for this meditation – I had to miss this moving service to attend class and this reflection has helped fill the gap.