Second Presbyterian Church RVA

You can trade in love
for a bag of coins.
And even then,
even still,
even now,
Jesus will love you enough to
wash your feet.
If you hear nothing else in the gospel,
hear this.

—excerpt from the poem “If You Hear Nothing Else, Then Hear This” by Rev. Sarah A. Speed

Art: "Flow" by Carmelle Beaugelin Caldwell () |

“Jesus is not just performing; he is extending genuine mercy. All confrontational nonviolence done in Jesus’ name invites the oppressor to be human again, not through dehumanizing power, but through the humility of our interdependence on each other. It is both unsurprising and devastating that, after his feet have been washed, Judas still runs to betray his Lord—just as it remains unsurprising and devastating when our enemies and oppressors do the same. But Jesus—truly human, and truly God—knew this would happen.

And he washes Judas's feet, anyway.”

—Rev. Lizzie McManus-Dail (), from her commentary on John 13:1-35 |

“Jesus is that King. But in an astonishing way. We know that he is ultimately on his way to the cross. His kingship, symbolized by his station upon a humble c**t, is one of sacrifice and service. And yet, as Lord, he is not a helpless victim. He is in charge. He is working out God’s plan in this demonstration of royal authority. Even in the process of letting go of his life, he is in charge of the liberation of God’s people. He puts our lives before his own life.

Our calling, having recognized Jesus’ Lordship, is to emulate his regal imperative. To live our lives as he lived his, in service to—and perhaps even in sacrifice for—the lives of God’s people.”

—Rev. Dr. Brian Blount, from his commentary on Mark 11:1-11

Art: "Palm Sunday Was a Protest" by Rev. Nicolette Faison (.faison) |