Violence is one of civilisation's unresolved problems. Humans are born with the tendency to dominate and even possess others. Utilising others as a means to an end. Take a look at the current world situation and we will soon understand it. Countries that feel more powerful, fight other countries in the name of "peace" and "upholding democracy". Those who are powerless are like pawns in a game that is difficult to know the winner, because all parties become victims. In our daily lives, we are also shown the same thing. The rulers use their people as a means to power and have more wealth. Those who are weak and oppressed are the foothold for power. Meanwhile, at the level of daily life, we see that for the sake of position, someone is willing to sacrifice and bring down his co-workers.

 

Then in the midst of this situation, we should ask, where is the love and care between fellow human beings? Isn't it from these two things that we can pave the way to a common life that respects each other and puts life as the basis of a common conversation. This is what we want to remember through the events of Maundy Thursday, which is identical to the washing of the disciples' feet by the Lord Jesus Himself.

 

John 13 places the foot washing just before Easter when Jesus and his disciples had eaten together. Explicitly, John mentions that Judas was also present and that Satan had whispered a plan in his heart to betray Jesus. The motive behind the betrayal is not explained here. Yet Judas' response is also not shown. Even after the washing of the feet, Jesus revealed the betrayal plan. Perhaps giving him a chance to consider the plan. Although Judas eventually carried out the betrayal plan, we can surmise that there was a period of time when Judas was still considering his decision. 

 

Although Judas' evil intentions were known to Jesus, it is interesting that Jesus still washed Judas' feet. After the meal, Jesus tied a linen cloth around his waist and began to wash his disciples' feet and wipe them with the cloth. Jesus' action brought confusion to the disciples' minds. Those who washed feet were usually servants and family members of lower status. How could Jesus, who was honoured as the Master, do such a thing? But therein lies the teaching that Jesus wanted to convey. If He who should have been washed, but humbled Himself to wash His disciples, then those whom He had washed should also do the same. In fact, all his disciples experienced the washing, even Judas who had planned to betray him, unfortunately Judas was not moved by the great love shown by the Teacher.

 

Jesus' washing did not only refer to the example of his daily life, but also described his overall mission in life. He was sent by God, who in His love wanted to save the world. That salvation was undertaken through Jesus' sacrifice and death on the cross. In that sacrifice we are all washed clean from the sins that bring death. That salvation brings newness to the existence of a human being. They are no longer servants of sin but His servants, who live life in memory of the example of the Son of God. Now through His willingness to wash feet, Jesus teaches about love, humility, and the spirit to serve one another instead of demanding to be served. 

 

In fact, this action of Jesus is really "astonishing". Was Jesus not afraid that his "dignity" as a teacher and leader would fall? Isn't that where the essence of Jesus' teaching lies? Marwah or honour and dignity does not lie in power, wealth, or position, but in one's willingness to love, serve, and sacrifice for others. It is very different from the viral news some time ago, that the “dignity ” of regional heads lies in luxurious official cars budgeted from public money. Not to mention the growing view that others are treated only as objects to satisfy our desires.

 

This year's Maundy Thursday teaches us to challenge the times. If the world is full of violence and the relentless pursuit of lust, then Christ's disciples are taught to manifest love in everyday life with a willingness to sacrifice and serve others. These actions must arise from a deep sense of gratitude for His grace, not from obligation, let alone force. Thus, love and mutual service are not a "seasonal trend" but a new identity of a person who has been touched by God's Great Love.