John 13, Part 1

Scripture: John 13:1-20

Observation: Jesus washes His disciples' feet. As the Passover meal is about to begin, Jesus is aware of everything falling into place. His betrayer is among them, and He will soon return to the Father (v.2,3). There is a lesson He needs to teach His disciples, a very important lesson on humility and servitude. Jesus rises from the table and begins washing His disciples' feet (v.5). This is contrary to the custom of His day; His disciples should have been washing His feet. So appalled is Peter, that he cannot believe what he is seeing and tells Jesus not to wash his feet, since Peter sees this as a humiliation. Yet Jesus tells Peter this is necessary, and Peter will not partake with Him unless he cooperates. Peter then tells Jesus, "Not just my feet, but my hands and head as well!" (v.6-9). Jesus tells Peter a full bath is unnecessary if one is clean as he is, though not everyone present is clean. Jesus then takes His seat and explains what He has done: Jesus has set an example for His disciples, to be humble and to serve each other. They are to do as He has done (v.15). It's not enough to know these things, they must to them also (v.17).

Application: Here is true wisdom: not just knowing but doing. Jesus' lesson would come into full force at the cross: giving His life for mankind would be the ultimate act of humility and servitude. But we can show these attributes in our everyday life. Just as Jesus showed simple yet true humility and servitude by washing His disciples' feet, so we can do the same with those around us. Family, friends, neighbors, strangers - the possibilities are endless. We need to be alert to every opportunity to do good.

Prayer: Father, I know I'm not always in tune to the needs of others. How frustrated I feel when I miss the opportunity to help someone in need! Help me to be conscious of those around me, to be willing to do and to give as You do and give each day, to all people, regardless of age, sex, race, even regardless if they are following You. The sun rises over the godly and the ungodly, and You provide for their needs. In the same way help me to see everyone as a person You created and want to come back to You. May I show the same love and mercy to others that You have extended to me. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.