Today is an important day in the Christian calendar. Jesus washed the disciples feet and then at a passover seder instituted the meal that has symbolically become the sacrament of holy communion. These actions which in themselves are ordinary have become central to our faith.
Foot washing is not something we do. It is not something fun or pleasurable to contemplate. I once had a foot massage and it was very relaxing but the person who did it washed my feet with a cloth first and then used aromatic oils in the massage to cover any adverse aromas. Washing dirty smelly feet must be one of the least appealing jobs there is and perhaps that is why podiatry and chiropody are not popular career choices. Yet it is an intimate relationship and is very satisfying to be on the receiving end.
Bread and wine have a universality about them that transcend cultures. The symbolic meal has been shaped and developed in many ways as the mass, communion or lords supper has developed in various traditions across the world from the simple meal. At some point in history, the real meal was left behind and the symbolic sharing of bread and wine took precedence.
Today is a day to remember. The biblical Greek word is anamnesis. It means more than just remember, reminiscence or recollection. It is wider and means relive through remembering. And this is what we do on this night and indeed at every time we share holy communion. We re-envision the presence of the Lord with us in his presence as we re-enact what he did in the upper room.
This is a special day. I pray you may find renewal and refreshment as you relive with the disciples those intimate events that brought them close together and brings us each close to God.
Image courtesy of vectorolie at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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