John 13:1-11
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Read John 13:1-11 taking note of anything that stands out or any feelings that arise.
The events of Jesus arrest and execution are about to be set into motion by Judas’ betrayal, and Jesus is fully aware that his time on earth with his closest followers is limited. He has much to say to them, but before the speaks he looks around at these who have remained with him even when they didn’t understand his ways, and he simply loves them.
His love pours out in a demonstration of the upside-down ways of the Kingdom of God. The Messiah, fully aware of his authority, identity and position, takes on the lowly role of a servant and begins washing the dirty feet of his loved ones.
Stop to contemplate this outrageous act of Jesus. Imagine him kneeling down to wash your dirty feet. What do you think, or how do you feel? Share these thoughts and feelings with him now.
Read John 13:1-11 again paying close attention to Jesus’ response to Peter.
In ancient civilizations where sandals were the primary footwear, a good host would provide water for guests to wash the dust from their feet. A particularly good host might even have a servant wash the feet of the guests, but the master of the house would never stoop to perform this task. All of the disciples must have been shocked, but Peter, in a burst of respect for his Master, cannot keep silent.
Jesus’ response is amazing. Unless Peter allows Jesus to serve him in this sacrificial way, he cannot belong to Jesus. Unless he is willing to lay aside his agendas and expectations and embrace the ways of the Kingdom, Peter will never become like his Master.
Jesus has cleansed us by his ultimate sacrifice on the cross, but as we walk through life in a world gone wrong, we tend to pick up some dust and dirt that if left unwashed can eventually dull our sense of Jesus’ presence.
Consider for a moment how Jesus might be seeking to serve you today. Is there some part of you that needs the dirt washed away so you can become more aware of his presence with you? Take a moment to be silent in Jesus’ presence and consider this. Picture Jesus’ love flowing over you and washing away anything that keeps you from experiencing his love.
If we belong to Jesus, we become more and more like him in what we say and do. Get quiet again and listen as best you can to anything Jesus might be saying to you.
How might Jesus be inviting you to emulate him by serving someone around you today? What will you do about that?
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