I didn’t grow up in a liturgical church, so I had never heard of a Maundy Thursday service. As an adult, I’ve come to appreciate churches that thoughtfully incorporate elements of the historic Christian calendar. These rhythms and traditions add depth and meaning to the story of our faith. Maundy Thursday is one of those meaningful observances.

Maundy Thursday takes place during Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter Sunday. It is observed on the Thursday before Good Friday and commemorates the night before Jesus’ crucifixion, when He shared the Last Supper with His disciples.

The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin word mandatum, meaning “commandment.” It points to the words Jesus spoke to His disciples that evening:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you” (John 13:34).

That night was filled with powerful, symbolic acts that Christians have remembered for centuries.

According to the Gospel accounts, Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, a task usually reserved for the lowest servant. This act of humility wasn’t just an example; it was an invitation. Jesus called His followers to love one another through humble, self-giving service.

During the meal, He also took bread, gave thanks, and broke it, telling His disciples it represented His body given for them. Then He took the cup and said it represented His blood, poured out for many. He instructed them to continue this practice in remembrance of Him. From the earliest days of the church, this moment has been remembered through Communion (also called the Lord’s Supper or Eucharist), which is central to Maundy Thursday observances across many Christian traditions.

Historically, the early church gathered to remember both the institution of Communion and Jesus’ command to love and serve. Over time, different traditions developed—including Communion services, Scripture readings, times of reflection, and in some churches, the practice of foot washing as a tangible expression of humility and love.

For me, Maundy Thursday has become a deeply reflective moment in the journey toward Easter. It invites us to slow down before the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter Sunday, to sit in the weight of what Jesus was about to do.

Good Friday reminds us of the cost of that love. Easter Sunday celebrates the victory of the resurrection. But Maundy Thursday calls us to remember the heart behind it all: love expressed through sacrifice and service.

So this Maundy Thursday, take time to remember.
Receive His love.
Give thanks for His sacrifice.
And live out His command—love one another with humility and grace.