Holy Thursday March 24, 2005 Scripture: Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; John 13:1-15 Reflection: On this first day of the Sacred Triduum, the Scriptural passages present us with a slowly developing panoramic liturgical picture of God’s reconciling action and our response. The first reading is the background and details for an annual Seder Meal recalling the passover from slavery to freedom of the Hebrew people in Egypt as they are saved by the blood of the lamb. Future generations are to live this experience, to remember and re-member. The second reading contains the earliest written account of the Lord’s supper. Paul hands on what he “…received from the Lord… Jesus… took bread… and said… ‘This is my body. Do this in remembrance of me.’” Jesus shares a meal. We celebrate reconciliation when we eat and drink at the same table. We remember to re-member. John’s description of the Last Supper is extended as he portrays Jesus performing a “new command,” an action that speaks more eloquently than the most profound words. Jesus washes his friends’ feet. Reconciling love demands action. Love overflows into an energy that demands expression. Suggested Action: The new command should jolt our thinking about leadership, service, evangelization. Francis of Assisi illuminated the “new command” by telling his followers to “preach the Gospel and when necessary, use words.” Gloria Gavin, Member of IHM Prayer Group Scranton, Pennsylvania