Thursday, April 5, 2012

Mandatum


An excerpt from a sermon by the Rev. Dr. Frank Hegedus:
The word “Maundy” does not have any meaning in and of itself. It is one of those exotic Episcopal or Anglican terms we sooner or later all become familiar with in our church. Scholars are not even sure of the word’s origin, though most now believe it to be a Middle English corruption of the Latin word mandatum – “commandment” – which appears in an ancient antiphon assigned for this day: “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another.”

This antiphon, taken of course from today’s gospel account, is an apt summary of what this day is about. And Jesus’ commandment to love is as much a new commandment today as it was in his own time. The command to love is, after all, always new – as is love itself. And the lesson of this day, Maundy Thursday, applies equally well to last Thursday and next Thursday and to all the Thursdays and other days yet to come. It is a lesson or mandate we, as followers of Christ, dare not forget.
And yet, we do forget. Sadly, tragically, inexcusably, we forget.
~~~

1 comment:

  1. Thank you for this Sr. Ellie...I have wondered about this word "Maundy" and appreciate the brief description. What an excellent topic for contemplation during this time.

    Richest Easter tidings,

    annie c

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