Holy Thursday: A Call to Serve in the Love of Christ

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J.E. Nickerson 

On Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, we remember the night Jesus gathered with His disciples in the Upper Room. As He prepared to lay down His life, He gave them a powerful demonstration of love—not just in words, but through action. Jesus, fully God and fully man, knelt down and washed the feet of His disciples. This act was not just about cleanliness; it was a declaration of humility, service, and divine love.


“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

— John 13:14–15 (NIV)


In that moment, Jesus modeled what it means to love with intention. He didn’t assert His authority by demanding reverence—He embodied it by serving others. Foot washing was a task reserved for the lowest servant in the household, yet Jesus chose to take that place. The King of kings stooped low so we might understand how high, how wide, and how deep His love truly is.


Then, as the evening unfolded, Jesus gave His disciples a new commandment—one that captures the essence of Holy Thursday and the very heart of Christian living:


“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

— John 13:34–35 (NIV)


This command wasn’t about shallow kindness or convenience; it was about sacrificial, Christlike love. The kind of love that stoops to wash feet. The kind of love that prepares to face a cross. The kind of love that sees the need and moves toward it, not away from it.


As we reflect on Holy Thursday, let us remember that Jesus calls us to more than just admiration of His example—He calls us to imitation. He asks us to serve one another in love, not just on this sacred day, but every day. In our homes, our churches, our communities, and our online spaces—everywhere we go—we are invited to carry the towel and basin, ready to serve, to forgive, and to love as Christ loves us.


So today, may we open our hearts and ask: Whose feet am I willing to wash? Who can I love the way Christ has loved me? Let us not wait for a grand gesture, but instead step into small acts of service that speak volumes of our Savior’s love.


On Holy Thursday and always, may the love of Christ compel us to serve, to give, and to love—just as He did. Let this be more than a remembrance—let it be a lifestyle. Love one another, as He has loved us.

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