This Mass has two major themes: sacrifice and service. The two cannot be separated. They are not merely historical events but present realities and living memories of cultic manifestations of divine activity. In the First Reading the Passover sacrifice is described as a "sign," "a day of remembrance," "a festival to the Lord" and a "perpetual ordinance." In the account, from the Second Reading, Jesus mentions twice that what is done is "in remembrance of me." This helps us to understand the significance of the washing of the feet and Jesus' words: "You call me teacher and Lord - and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you." (Jn 13: 13-15) Thus, every Eucharist involves sacrifice and service. Jesus washes our feet! He also asks us to imitate him in his humility, service and love. It is only when we start to serve one another in imitation of the Lord that we can have an insight into the depth of his love for us and the sacrifice that is offered when we conform ourselves to his self-giving. It must also be noted that this Mass does not conclude with a dismissal and blessing. Rather, it is of one piece with the Good Friday Commemoration of the Lord's Passion and the Easter Vigil and so the themes of each ceremony feed into and amplify the themes of the others.
No comments:
Post a Comment