Holy Thursday ~ 6 April 2023 ~ Bible Readings for Mass: I: Exodus 12: 1-8, 11-14; Responsorial: Psalm 116; II: I Corinthians 11: 23-26; Gospel: John 13: 1-15

Holy Thursday, the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper. It is the beginning of the Holy Triduum the heart of the Liturgical year and our faith as Catholics. This year we are mindful of all the conflicts and strife in our world, our nation, and even among Christians. Perhaps it is due to the stress and pain of this world that Christians seek to respond with their distinct perceptions of faith and practices. This divisive focus is seen in the in infections of politics but also among issues of worship, liturgical practices, music, and other preferences. And it is in this very real world, the Holy Spirit gives us these very holy days and times to focus on what is most important.

HOLY THURSDAY

He took the bread

and giving thanks, He then said: ‘ This is My Body, take eat’.

And gave them each, He gave them all, His Body to be shared.

He took the cup

and giving thanks He said, ‘ Take drink, this is My Blood.’

And He gave them each, He gave them all, His Blood to be shared.

All were there, John the Beloved, James, and Matthew.

Peter, too who soon His Lord he would deny.

And Judas Iscariot the holy meal received tainted with betrayals deeds.

They would fail and their fears pursue.

Except for His Mother, with John the beloved

And those women with courage bold.

They each received that holy meal

with love and reverence

and faith in their knowing Jesus.

Yet weak and ready for the world to steal.

The cross, the grave they had to face.

They stumbled, they fell

in their holy race.

But that meal, His hands had shared

carried them through their fears and doubts.

Brought them together unsure, afraid

But still one in Him, the evil one to route.

It was then they remembered how the holy meal began.

Their feet, each He washed.

This basic task they had missed.

Their feet He washed. each in love and mercy blessed.

In spite of the path, their doubts would mess.

And His words they remembered then.

This holy reverent love, His Presence Real demands,

must always blend,

in love and service, for each, for all, this was His plan,

to cleanse and feed,

to bring His cleansing hope and faith that grows

to resurrection’s, dawn to know.