Here we are at Holy Thursday.
This is the day Christ instituted the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist and Holy Orders.
In the reading today from John, Peter initially refuses to let Jesus wash his feet.
While I know Peter’s intention was an attempt at humility, it is, no less, a false humility. Christ wants to do something for him and the others and Peter is telling Jesus—God—no.
“Hey, Jesus, I know better.”
Thankfully, Christ explains and Peter relents and embraces the washing of his feet, going so far as to then say, “then not only my feet, but my hands and head, as well.”
How many times do we refuse the good God wants to shower upon us because we have a false sense of humility?
“I’m not worthy to be loved by God. I’m too big of a sinner.”
“God would never forgive me.”
So many of us refuse God’s love and forgiveness because of pride. God wants to love us, to forgive us and we refuse to allow Him to do so. Like it or not, that’s pride, because we are placing our will above God’s by refusing Him.
It is true, we are unworthy and we should never think that we deserve or are owned anything from God. However, God wants to love you, He wants to forgive you, He wants to make you clean, He wants to be in a relationship with you.
We should welcome all the love God wants to give us, Catholic Pilgrims. We should welcome it, be eternally grateful, allow His love to transform us, and love Him in return. Don’t refuse Him.
Have a blessed Holy Thursday.
*Picture is from the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Charleston, SC.
