The Unexpected Washing

“He had loved His disciples during His ministry on earth, and now He loved them to the very end.”  (John 13:1 NLT)

In the Upper Room Discourse recorded in John, Jesus would talk through many important last messages to His disciples.  But He would show them a critical lesson first.

Dirty feet were not unusual in 1st Century Palestine.  Someone washing the feet of others, also, not strange.  But a teacher washing the feet of his students – unexpected.  Jesus, the Creator of the world, washing the dirt away from the feet of twelve ordinary men – mind-boggling!

“And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet.”  He goes on to tell them the messenger is not more important than the one who sends the message. (vs 14-17)

Pride is one of our greatest risks.  The disciples, like us, were not immune.  They would soon be entrusted with telling the whole world about Jesus.  Pride was a real risk – to them and to the message. 

It’s the same for us.  The Lord doesn’t want us to fall prey to the grips of pride – for ourselves and for those around us.

Having a servant’s heart is really the best – He wants that for you and for me. 

The Lord loves you, He always has!

Some Prayer Prompts to Help

Read – John 13:1-17

Contemplate – Jesus has authority over everything that has been or will be on this earth (vs 3).  Think on His willingness to leave that position for a time for us.

Confess – Pray for insight into any ways that pride may have creeped in or where you have been unwilling to serve others.  Turn it over to Him.

Praise – Jesus loved us all to the very end - He could have called legions of angels to destroy, but He willingly gave Himself up for us.  Jesus was Master of all, he did not need to serve anyone.  Praise Him for His love and His heart for you.