An unexpected dignity

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Ubi Caritas

Cape Town Camerata

Today is Thursday the 30th of April, in the fourth week of Easter.

The Cape Town Camerata sings 'Ubi Caritas'. Wherever love is true, God is there. This song expresses the presence of God in every act of goodness, of kindness, of love. What acts of goodness and kindness and love have you seen so far today? Did you recognise God’s presence there? And look at the people around you. Outside of this train, or bus, or wherever it is you are right now, what goodness and kindness and love might there be in their lives? Can you recognise God, present in them too?

3:52

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of John.

John 13:16-20

'Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them. I am not speaking of all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But it is to fulfil the scripture, “The one who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.” I tell you this now, before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I am he. Very truly, I tell you, whoever receives one whom I send receives me; and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.’

5:18

Today’s passage immediately follows Jesus’ washing of his disciples’ feet. Enter this space in your mind. We know it as the place of the Last Supper. Imagine this room - meant for hospitality and celebration, the friends already unsettled by Jesus’ actions. The air carries both intimacy and apprehension. Jesus says that no servant is greater than the master, and that those who receive the one he sends receive him — and the Father. What is your reaction to Jesus humbling himself? Do you feel called, challenged, comforted?

“If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.”

Jesus gives service to others a dignity that was unexpected for those times. Perhaps it is still unexpected today.

As you listen to the reading again, listen for what Jesus might be asking of you.

8:38

John 13:16-20

'Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them. I am not speaking of all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But it is to fulfil the scripture, “The one who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.” I tell you this now, before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I am he. Very truly, I tell you, whoever receives one whom I send receives me; and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.’

9:50

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever receives the one I send receives me.”

Spend these remaining moments of prayer with the Lord, sharing your thoughts and desires.

12:04

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen