January 22, 2025 - John‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬-‭5‬, ‭12‬-‭15‬

“[Jesus] rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.” John 13:4-5, 12-15 ESV

Jesus, there is so much in this verse to digest. First, is the obvious, how amazing it is that God would come to earth and take on a human body, then become like a servant. By washing their feet, you took on the lowliest job in serving them. You, the Almighty, Sovereign, and Holy God, humbly washing the dirty feet of man. What a beautiful act of love and service. Then you tell us to do the same. Help us learn to put others above us. Especially those who can give us nothing in return. Help us live humbly and to joyfully put others’ needs above our own.

Jesus, the thing that amazes me most about this verse is the way you love. You know what is coming. You know how in the hour when you need them most, your disciples will mostly not be there for you. They will fall asleep when you need them to intercede. One that says he loves you will deny knowing you to save his own life and reputation 3 times. One that you had walked closely with and invested yourself into is about to betray you and turn you over to your enemies. You knew all these things, and yet you still chose to humble yourself and love them. How many of us would do the same? Your love is so remarkable. Help us be more like you.

In Jesus name, amen.