The word “maundy” comes from the Latin word that means mandate or command. Jesus, our King, is certainly in a position to command us to do what he wants. However, before he does, he leads by example. Jesus’ command this night to his disciples is to “love one another, as I have loved you.” And as a demonstration of what His love for us compels him to do, Jesus assumes the role of a servant, gets on his hands and knees, and washes His disciples’ feet.

Jesus says, “If I, your savior and king, have washed your feet, so too should you wash each other’s feet.” But washing feet is the least of what Jesus will do to show us His love. The very next day he would lay down his life for them and us as he hung on the cross to forgive our sins.

Maundy Thursday is also the occasion on which Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion). We will gather tonight to worship God, but mostly to receive His Divine Service, which he does out of great love for you.