Maundy Thursday

from the mom

Yesterday was Maundy Thursday. (The word "Maundy" comes from the Latin for 'command' (mandatum). It refers to the command given by Jesus at the Last Supper, that his disciples should love one another.) Our focus is on the Last Supper and the Garden of Gethsemane.

Our church has a foot-washing ceremony after a shared meal. The other kids Ben's age were off playing in a separate room but he remained with us. Ben loves church and we feel really blessed that he has a natural interest. One of the little girls in our church came and asked if she could wash Ben's feet. It was a truly precious thing. Ben's understanding may be limited but he treated the experience with absolute reverence. At times I wonder if children should participate. And then I realize that my understanding is limited too. And we have two commands that guide me: 1) We are to become as little children and 2) Let the little children come unto Me.

Our church holds a prayer vigil through this night where everyone commits to praying for an hour. It has been one of the most meaningful things I've experienced as I reflect on Christ's words: "Could you not watch and pray with me for one hour?" Because my schedule is a little more flexible I was letting others take the first slots and planned to take what was left. We were in the car on the ride home when I realized I hadn't signed up for one. When I told M, he said, "I'll pray for you." I accepted that grace as it has been a long week. This morning at 4:55 when M's alarm went off, I let him get up and pray for both us. Next year, I won't miss my slot. It means too much to me. But this year, I am reflecting on how we "bear one another's burdens." I'm thankful there are those who pray when I cannot.