On Holy Thursday, we remember the last supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles. This marks the establishment of the sacrament of the Eucharist, or Holy Communion.
This day also commemorates the establishment of the priesthood. The washing of the feet reminds us how Jesus instructed us to love and serve one another.
Holy Thursday focuses on several themes that are intertwined with the events of the Last Supper, Jesus' final hours with His disciples before His crucifixion.
Reflecting on the Mass readings for Holy Thursday, the following themes emerge:
The Institution of the Eucharist: The central theme of Holy Thursday is the establishment of the Eucharist, as recounted in the second reading from 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. Jesus breaks bread and shares the cup, declaring them His body and blood, thereby instituting the sacrament of the Eucharist as a perpetual remembrance of His sacrifice.
Sacrifice and Salvation: The readings from Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14 and 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 both highlight the theme of sacrifice leading to salvation. The Passover lamb's blood, which spared the Israelites from death, prefigures Christ's own sacrifice, whose blood saves humanity from sin.
Service and Humility: The Gospel from John 13:1-15 focuses on Jesus washing the feet of His disciples, an act of humility and service. This gesture not only prepares them for the sacred meal but also sets an example for how they are to love and serve one another.
Community and Sharing: The readings also underscore the importance of community and sharing within the faith journey. The Israelites share the Passover lamb among families, and the Eucharist is celebrated as a communal act of faith, binding the community together in memory of Christ's sacrifice.
Remembrance and Continuity: The directive to remember and perpetuate the memory of these significant events is a key theme. The Israelites are to remember the Passover "as a festival to the LORD"; Christians are to remember Jesus' sacrifice through the Eucharist "until he comes."
The Agony in the Garden: After the Last Supper, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray, where he experienced great anguish and agony. This event is also remembered at the end of and after Holy Thursday Mass.
As a Church of the Home, reflect and discuss:
How does the celebration of Holy Thursday and the Eucharist deepen your relationship with Christ?
In what ways does the Eucharist nourish and strengthen you for your journey of faith?
How can you share the gift of the Eucharist with others in your daily life?
What does it mean to you to receive the true and substantial presence of Christ in the bread and wine during Mass?
How does the Eucharist inspire you to work for justice and peace in the world?
How have you served others today? Take some time to reflect on your actions and see how you have put the needs of others before your own.
What prevents you from having a servant's heart? Are there any fears or insecurities that hold you back from serving others? Take some time to reflect on what may be preventing you from fully embracing a life of service.
How has Jesus washed your feet recently? In what ways has Jesus shown you love and service in your life? Take some time to reflect on the blessings and graces that you have received from God, and how they have impacted your life.
How can you better reflect God's love in the world? What can you do to actively love and serve others in your community? Take some time to reflect on how you can make a difference in the lives of those around you.
Join us for Holy Thursday Mass in person at 7:ooPM or online at www.gbres.org/live, our YouTube channel, or our Facebook page.
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