Today marks the observance of Maundy Thursday within the Christian church. Many churches commemorate the Lord's Last Supper with His disciples and His "command" (Maundy means command) that his disciples "love one another." Additionally, many churches conduct services of foot-washing, following Jesus' humble example of washing the feet of the disciples - an act of service, love and humility. We are reminded to relate to each another with these qualities, placing ourselves at the feet of one another both literally and figuratively. The church I attend, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Fredericksburg, TX (www.stbarnabasfbg) also holds an all-night vigil this night "in the garden with Jesus," remembering the time that He went away to pray to His Father that "this cup might pass from me." Throughout the night, people take turns praying "with Jesus," symbolizing that He will not be alone on this last night of His life. Take a moment to reflect on the meaning and power of the events of this day with the words of this poem:
LIVING WATER
LIVING WATER
Warm tears slowly find their way down my cheek and drip from my chin.
The brokenness of my heart, the pain of love pours forth and spills around me.
The sweet fragrance of this love and the saltiness of my tears mingle on my tongue.
How can something so painful, smell so sweet?
How does the sorrow of life bring out its flavor?
Oh God, hold my wounded heart within your healing hands.
Fill the broken places with the salve of your loving tears.
Show me how this vessel can still be useful
To pour out to others your living water.
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