Following Jesus Example
Christian made it up to Fort Collins to retrieve the grandkids this morning. While here he installed some new outside lights that we have had for some time. We had our house painted in the fall and these fixtures were the final completion. What a great day in terms of weather considering the snow of yesterday. I’m glad its March not January. I had a fitness center workout. I actually, very cautiously, walked the width of the basketball court without my crutches. No points for style, but I made it!
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “When Jesus had washed their feet and put on His robe, He reclined again and said to them, “Do you know what I have done for you? You call Me Teacher and Lord. This is well said, for I am. So if I, 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 for you.” John 13:12-15 HCSB
During the chapters that are referred to as the “Upper Room Discourse” Jesus shares many truths with His disciples. He shares about what the future holds, the work of the Holy Spirit, He talks about the vine and the branches, He prays. But before all this takes place, Jesus begins His time with the disciples by washing their feet.
The borrowed room was ready, they all gathered for the Passover meal and these special last hours with Jesus. Jesus begins the time by taking the place of a typical household servant. He takes a basin of water and a towel and begins to wash the disciples feet.
His first lesson, was a demonstration that got their attention. So much so, Peter resisted when Jesus came to Him. After the act of humble service, Jesus seizes the moment and turns it into instruction. At the close of His time with the disciples He reminds them of the importance of being servants to each other and the world. Even in Jesus day there was enough status seeking and “class” distinction.
Jesus also, emphasizes that the real blessing comes from obedience not just knowledge. It is not knowing what is right that brings the blessing it is doing what is right. Jesus said, “If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.” (John 13:17 HCSB)
There are some important observations about this act, especially considering the timing. We can observe that…
1 – A servant focuses on the needs of others. Jesus knew His time to return to the Father was near. But He laid aside focus on Himself and what He would be enduring to demonstrate love to the disciples. We read, “Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.” (John 13:1 HCSB) Jesus continued to put others first and maximize His influence on them.
2 – A servant is secure. “Jesus knew that His hour had come to depart from this world to the Father…” (John 13:1 HCSB) Jesus knew who He was. We see this when He was 12 years old in the Temple. He knew where He had come from and He knew where He was going.
In a few moments He would share with His disciples the words, “Your heart must not be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if not, I would have told you. I am going away to prepare a place for you. If I go away and prepare a place for you, I will come back and receive you to Myself, so that where I am you may be also…” (John 14:1-3 HCSB)
The hours ahead would be grueling and difficult, but that was not His focus. Now was the time to share with those who had been with Him from the beginning.
3 – A servant focuses on relationship. “You will never wash my feet—ever!” Peter said. Jesus replied, “If I don’t wash you, you have no part with Me.” (John 13:8 HCSB) If you want to connect with someone, then serve them. Make them feel important and honored.
As we respond to Christ in faith and follow His teaching in action, we experience what He alone can provide. That includes a sense of purpose, a sense of security and the assurance of a future that has been prepared for us.