Lent: Maundy Thursday/ Holy Thursday
What do you think it feels like to have your feet washed by another person? Some people are moved to tears when this is done to them during the Mass of Holy Thursday. Others tremble. Some feel embarrassed. Perhaps this was how Peter felt back then. That is why he initially refused to have his feet washed. The Lord Jesus then had to explain that all of them needed to have their feet washed. All of them had to be cleansed before they could take part in the Last Supper.
Although we do not always think about it, there are times when we assume that we are already fine, that we are already acceptable in the sight of God. But often, we are not. We need to experience the cleansing of Jesus: His service, His humility, His offering of His life for us. As embarrassing as it may be, we must allow God to love us. As unsettling as it may feel, we must experience His touch. As moving as it may be, we must come to realize that no one is truly clean before God unless we pass through the cleansing of Jesus, through His blood on the Cross.
Lord, remove from me the virus of self-righteousness. Show me my need for Your saving grace, so that I may truly change, become better, and be truly clean in Your sight.
(On the night of Holy Thursday, the vigil before the Blessed Sacrament is traditionally held until midnight. This is when many people do the Visita Iglesia. If you cannot do this in church at present, set aside precious moments before the altar in your home. Light a candle, read the Bible quietly, reflect, maintain silence, and unite yourself with the sacrifice of the Lord.)
