Station 4: Washing the Disciples Feet

John 13:1-5

1 It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.

2 The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. 3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; 4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

FOR FURTHER READING
John 13:6-17

REMEMBER

Jesus knew the end of His time on earth was approaching. He knew and accepted the authority given to Him by God, and He knew He would soon be in Heaven with Him again, but He also recognized how much He loved His friends on earth. He took this moment during the Passover meal with His closest friends to show the kind of humble love He wanted them to be able to receive and give to others.

Imagine the dirt. Imagine the smell. These men wandered the desert, walked hours and days on end, traveling wherever Jesus went. Showers weren’t always an option, and they had likely walked miles in strappy sandals. Imagine the intimacy of this moment, where their Lord, teacher, Rabbi and friend got down on His knees and chose to serve them by washing their feet. Jesus was so confident in His Father, His calling, and His relationships that He was able to, willing to, and so desired to serve others in this way – that they would feel loved, accepted, and cared for so intimately.

Some rejected His actions, not wanting to embrace the uncomfortable situation, but Jesus insisted. This revelation of His love, humility, and sacrifice for those closest to Him (even the ones who would betray and deny Him), reveals an example of how we ought to turn and love those around us. He says it clearly – “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” (John 13:15)

RECOGNIZE 

Consider what it was like to wash the feet of the disciples. Is it possible that Jesus is asking you to wash the feet of those that failed, betrayed and abandoned you?  

What is the blessing that we receive when we follow His example in this? What are the areas you need to be cleansed in? 

RECEIVE

Jesus, forgive me for the ways I have doubted, abandoned or betrayed You. I need You to wash me and make me clean! Thank You for Your patience. Teach me to serve others. Give me the power to overcome selfishness, fear and offense. Give me the desire to choose the life of love. Help me to choose to offer forgiveness and grace. Freely I have received these things and freely I will give them. Amen.