For many Filipinos, the importance of Maundy Thursday is eclipsed by the solemnity of Good Friday, when Christ dies on the cross, and Easter Sunday, when he rises from death. And yet, Maundy Thursday in the Christian tradition is one of the most profound observances next only to the Easter vigil. On this holy day, the Lord shares his last supper with his apostles in a Holy Communion. And on this day too, Christ, as the self-appointed Passover victim, demonstrates the ultimate attribute of servant leadership by washing the feet of his 12 apostles even as he eventually declares that one of his disciples will betray him. In today’s world, Christ’s unique brand of leadership that has preserved the Christian faith through centuries and has spread to many nations continues to inspire humanity in many ways, in many forms, in governance, community service, even in business. In Jesus’ celebration of the Passover or last meal, he became a servant to his apostles by washing their feet before the start of their meals, a supreme example of humility that had undoubtedly surprised and even embarrassed his disciples on that evening. Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will glorify the Son in himself, and will glorify him at once. My children, I will be with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so I tell you Read More …
