Holy Week Devotionals: Maundy Thursday

By Associate Pastor of Youth and Missions/Outreach Lindsey Odom

Read John 13:1-17, 31-35

Summary of Scripture Passage: Jesus took a towel, girded himself, and washed the disciples feet. Jesus took on the form of a servant in washing the disciples feet, revealing his unconditional love for them. In the same way, we must love one another as Christ has loved us. The word, Maundy means “mandate.” It comes from this passage in John when Jesus says, “Truly I tell you to love one another.” Therefore, love becomes a mandate for us all and love requires action. Others should know we are faithful disciples of Christ because of our love for all God’s people.

Painting: Ford Madox Brown’s painting titled, Jesus washing Peter’s Feet (1856)

Reflect on the painting using the following questions:

• What do you notice when you look at the painting for the first time?
• Take a few moments to look away from the art, and quickly look back to it. Where are your eyes drawn to when you refocus upon the image?
• Do you feel that this painting accurately portrays what happens in the story? Does it advance your thoughts on the story, or no? If not, why?
• What aspects of the painting stand out to you from the rest of the painting? Do you think the artist did this intentionally?
• Are the colors that the artist used significant or noteworthy? Do the colors convey a certain mood?
• Are their any similarities between the passage and this piece of art? What are the differences if there are any between the scripture passage and the painting?
• What has this activity taught you about your faith? Is it really possible for all of us to be looking at the same piece of art and see different things within it?

Read this affirmation of what it means to be Jesus’ disciple in connection to the foot-washing story

(John 13:1-17, 31-35):

We are Jesus’ disciples,

following him even as he moves toward the cross.

Even as he wraps a towel around his waist.

Even as he kneels to wash the filth from the feet of his friends.

We are Jesus’ disciples,

longing to be faithful even as the night grows dark.

Even as betrayers loom.

Even as the powers that oppose the way of Christ press in around us.

We are Jesus’ disciples,

striving to love others like Jesus loves us,

especially seen through the Foot-washing story.