Jesus Washed Their Feet [John 13]

 3Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come forth from God and was going back to God, 4got up from supper, and laid aside His garments; and taking a towel, He girded Himself.

 5Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.

 6So He came to Simon Peter. He said to Him, "Lord, do You wash my feet?" 7Jesus answered and said to him, "What I do you do not realize now, but you will understand hereafter." 8Peter said to Him, "Never shall You wash my feet!" Jesus answered him, "If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me." 9Simon Peter said to Him, "Lord, then wash not only my feet, but also my hands and my head."


Have you been thinking about Jesus more now that you are reading John?  This chapter moves us into some very personal chapters.  We are going to be included in to some very intimate details of Jesus' last week of life on earth. Knowing what was coming, He gently began preparing His followers for what lie ahead.  He started by the sweet and humble gesture of washing their feet.

Can you sense the clear sense of direction Jesus had as He took off His robe to serve them?  His confidence came because He knew three important things: Everything that was happening to Him was put into His hands by His loving Father.  He knew that He came from God and that He was going back to God.  In the next few chapters we will hear His tender words of hope and encouragement to His disciples and to us as He prepares them for the cruel death He is about to face.

We praise You, Jesus, for demonstrating majesty and humility. Cause us to walk in the truth of your Sovereign majesty and in humility with others by your grace. Build Your confidence in us as we remember Who is  in control of all things, where we came from and where we are going.
Beth Warlick, 12/15/2010
Feedback:
Marybeth Dewey (Guest) 12/15/2010 08:56
This especially hits home for me, as recently, I think God has been encouraging me to trust the truth that I am his, and I am on my way to Him! He also, I think, has been encouraging me to still care for others as I trust him. Thank you, Beth :)