New Love

During the celebration of the Passover meal, Jesus knowing everything had been given to Him, in His power and authority knelt with a towel and basin bowl and washed the disciples’ feet. This example redefined greatness and even love itself. Jesus tells His disciples, “A new command I give you,” He said—not new in concept, but new in quality: love as I have loved you. This kind of love is not based on our emotions or how we “feel” about the person but is a self-emptying, sacrificial, and steadfast kind of love. On Maundy Thursday we are confronted with the mystery and mandate of that love: a love that kneels before sinners, that serves instead of demands, that gives before its asked, and that invites us to embody the very heart of God in how we love one another.