Jesus’ New Commandment

Since the early Church, the day before Good Friday has been known as “Maundy Thursday.” This is when we commemorate the night before Jesus was betrayed—the night He instituted the Lord’s Supper and exemplified servanthood by washing the disciples’ feet.

A crowning moment of that night was the “new commandment” Jesus issued. This wasn’t a request or suggestion, but a real “command.” In fact, “Maundy” comes from the Latin word that means “command,” and it’s the source of our English word “mandate.” This day also has been important for its emphasis on personal purity and the need to be clean before God. As Paul reminded us, we are to “examine ourselves” before taking the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:28).

There are many ways in which Christians have celebrated this day throughout history. Some churches still have special services to observe Maundy Thursday. More often in our busy culture, this day is ignored and overlooked. However, the simple fact is that every Christian should remember this day and all it means to us.

Today, as you prepare to mark Good Friday and celebrate the glory of Easter, don’t forget the many lessons of Maundy Thursday. Consider the example of Jesus, and seek to be a servant. Remember the importance of the Lord’s Supper, and seek to be clean and pure before God by confessing your sins.

Obey the new commandment Jesus gave us, and remember that others will know you are His disciple…if you show His love to them. This is not an option, but His mandate.