A Tapestry of Service

As another school year moves toward a conclusion, reflections on critical events seems to be sewn together into a tapestry of a well-made quilt. Sandwiched between overarching themes of celebration and triumph, are memories of spiritual epiphanies, technological masteries, academic accomplishments, and social masquerading. This power of remembering brings the human soul to life and empowers one to move forward with an eager anticipation perhaps not fully realized until this moment. The patchwork of both joys and sorrows are quilted together to provide a masterpiece with which one can wrap oneself in gentle quiet reflection.

The power of memory is life-changing. Considering that today begins the Christian Tradition of the Easter Triduum, we remember this is the pinnacle of the Liturgical Year, three days chronologically unfolding a tapestry of Christ’s Paschal Mystery. Holy Thursday reminds us of the words of Jesus, “Do this in memory of me.” Even more powerful than his words are his deeds, best described “…if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” The tapestry of this one man’s life challenges us to remember humble empathy and compassion are the hallmarks of our lives as we “eat this bread and drink this cup.” Remembering on this day challenges us to keep Jesus’ mandate alive as we move forward to continue creating that tapestry which is ours. Compassionate generosity and healing forgiveness with an unbridled desire “for the kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven” is our life-changing Easter prayer.

Author: Keith Reese, Theology Department