What is Maundy Thursday?

I am so happy and honored to be with you today to share the hope of God’s word with you today.  Once again, the Easter season is upon us and, it just might be me, but I feel as if life passes by quicker each year.  The truth is many of you have walked down long roads in life. You’ve known joy— raising families, building friendships, or serving others. But you’ve also faced sorrow—perhaps the loss of a spouse, the aches of aging, or the quiet loneliness that sometimes creeps in. Our world, as we know it, can feel broken. It’s marked by mistakes—ours and others’—that bring pain, grief, and heartbreak. Yet, in this brokenness, there’s a light that never fades: the hope of Jesus Christ.

Today, on Maundy Thursday, we remember a sacred night long ago, the night before Jesus died on the cross. It was his last evening with his disciples, his closest friends. That night, Jesus showed us what love looks like in two powerful ways: he washed their feet, and he gave them the Lord’s Supper. These acts speak to us here, in this moment, offering comfort, forgiveness, and a promise of eternal life.

READ - Matthew 26:26-29

JESUS, THE SERVANT

Have you ever tried to picture that night? The disciples were gathered for dinner, their feet dusty from walking the roads of Jerusalem. In those days, washing someone’s feet was a humble task, done by servants. But Jesus, their teacher and Lord, took a towel, knelt down, and washed their feet, one by one. He did this to show us that true greatness lies in serving others with love. Even as he faced betrayal and the cross, Jesus put his friends first. 

I know that many of you have served others in your lives— caring for a family, helping a neighbor, or praying for a friend. Even now, your kind words, your prayers, or a smile can be a way to serve, reflecting Jesus’s love. Here at Luther Manor, when you listen to a neighbor or share a story of faith, you’re following Jesus’s example of humble service. 

THE GIFT OF THE LORD’S SUPPER

That same night, Jesus gave us something even more precious: the Lord’s Supper. As they ate, he took bread, thanked God, broke it, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body, given for you.” Then he took a cup of wine, gave thanks, and said, “Drink from it, all of you; this is my blood, shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.” He told them to do this to remember him.

These words, recorded in Matthew 26:26-29, are for us, too. When we receive the bread and wine in Communion, we’re not just eating and drinking. Jesus promises that we receive his true body and blood, given for us on the cross. It’s his way of saying, “I love you. I forgive you. I’m with you always.” It’s like an embrace from a dear friend, reminding us we’re never alone.

WHY THIS MATTERS TO US

The Lord’s Supper is a gift, especially for you all here. Life in a nursing facility can bring challenges—physical pain, missing loved ones, or feeling like the world has moved on. But in Communion, Jesus meets us right where we are. bringing these three blessings:

Forgiveness We all carry regrets—words we wish we could take back, things we didn’t do, or moments we weren’t our best. The Lord’s Supper assures us that Jesus forgives us completely. His body and blood, given and shed for you, cleanses you from all iniquity. You are loved, no matter what.

Strength and Hope As we face the uncertainties of aging, Communion strengthens our faith. It reminds us that Jesus walked through suffering and came out victorious. He promises us eternal life, where there will be no more pain or tears. When you take the bread and wine, you’re holding onto that promise.

Community Here, we’re a family. When we share the Lord’s Supper, we’re united with each other and with We’re not alone in our struggles. This meal binds us together, reminding us we share in God’s grace. Your presence here, your prayers, and your love for one another make this a holy community.

The power of this sacrament isn’t in the bread or wine but in trusting Jesus’s words: “This is my body, given for you.” To receive it fully, we prepare our hearts. Take a moment to reflect—maybe on a time you were short-tempered or held a grudge. Tell God you’re sorry and trust in his forgiveness. If you believe Jesus died for you and love him as your Savior, you’re ready to come to his table.

LIVING OUT THIS LOVE

As we receive Communion today, let’s remember what Jesus did that night. He served, he loved, and he gave himself for us. Even now, you can share that love. A kind word to a caregiver, a prayer for a neighbor, or a smile to someone feeling low—these are ways to serve like Jesus. And when you take the bread and wine, let it fill you with hope. Jesus’s body was broken, and his blood was shed so you could have eternal life. He’s preparing a place for you in heaven, where you’ll join him at a great feast, free from sorrow.

CLOSING

So today, as we share the Lord’s Supper, know that you are loved beyond measure. Jesus sees your heart, your struggles, and your faith. He says, “Take, eat; take, drink—this is for you.” Let this meal comfort you, strengthen you, and fill you with hope. You are not alone—you’re part of God’s family, here and forever.