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April 12, 2017
On this Holy Thursday, the words of Jesus echo down through the centuries to us today: “Do this in remembrance of me.” What indeed is the meaning of this? For many it would be to continue to celebrate what Jesus instituted that night—the Holy Eucharist.
So it is related in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Yet John gives us the essence of the Eucharist: the washing of the apostles’ feet.That act of love and service mirrors the words of Jesus: “This is my Body handed over for you. This is my Blood poured out for you.” When we do this, we make the Eucharist come alive.
We pour out our time and energy, our talents and resources, through many gestures of mercy and compassion for the good of others. Yes, the Eucharist has to do with the bread and wine, the Body and Blood of Jesus. But it also has to do with the feet of others. There we kneel and serve and do this in remembrance of Jesus.
Father Mark Wise, C.Ss.R.
Newton Grove, N.C.Scripture readings for today: Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14; Psalm 116; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; John 13:1-15