Devotion. Deception. Truth. Falsehood. Fidelity. Betrayal. Bearing witness. Running away. Showing up. Selling out. Undying love. Dying dreams. New vision. Old habits.
All of these have been part of the Jesus movement from the beginning. And always, even today, all of these are present somewhere in the capital-C Church. Not only are these realities present in our common life as followers of Jesus, they are also present in our personal lives and relationships as well.
Tonight, we begin again the Sacred Triduum, the holy three days of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Day. As we commence the liturgy this evening, the ancient teaching is that it is already Easter. So, we are not re-enacting the last events of Jesus’ life on earth in these services of Holy Week. Rather, we are bearing witness to the need, our need, to face up to all dimensions of the human condition and our ongoing dependence on God’s grace, goodness, and faithfulness for strength to walk the path before us with compassion, integrity, and joy.
The Collect for Monday in Holy Week
Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Art, Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet by Albert Edelfelt
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