Maundy Thursday

I was born into the church. For years I thought Maundy Thursday was "Monday Thursday." I thought Holy Week begins on Monday, and on Thursday we talk about Jesus one last time before the crucifixion. Then one day, I gave my little definition to a congregant, and she responded, "Melissa, Holy Week begins on Palm Sunday, not on Monday."

I mention this story because if I, someone who spent an entire lifetime in the church, didn't realize the realize what Maundy Thursday was, I'm sure I'm not alone.

There is some confusion over the origin of the word, "Maundy." Basically, it's a day to celebrate the first communion, and the mandate Jesus gave us:

34 “I give you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, so you also must love each other. 35 This is how everyone will know that you are my disciples, when you love each other.”
John 13:34-35 CEB

Many will also add a foot washing. All three are biblically placed in John 13. 

Therefore, if you go to your worships tonight, put political discourse, church infighting, and general drama aside. Today we gather around the table to love one another as Christ loved us.