When the Creator Wore Sandals
“There comes One after me who is mightier than I, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to stoop down and loose.” Mark 1:7
The Gospel of Mark is perfect for the Epiphany season. The opening verse says, “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” Mark sets out to shine a light on Jesus to reveal Him to the world as the Son of God and our only Savior from sin. He shows that Jesus came in fulfillment of prophecy which proves He is the One God promised.
The words above are recorded in all four gospels so they must be important, but I wonder if we fully appreciate what John was saying. John was clearly stating that Jesus was the Son of God. He knew he wasn’t worthy to do even the most menial task for Jesus. Even being a lowly servant of the Son of God would be an honour of which none of us are worthy.
But John is saying something else about Jesus. It’s so obvious that we pass right over it without giving it a thought, yet it is really the most remarkable thing. Jesus wore sandals! You say, “Of course, those were the shoes everyone wore in Israel.” Exactly, that’s the point! That is what is so remarkable. Jesus is the Almighty, Eternal Son of God. He is the Creator of all things, yet here He is, on earth, wearing sandals like everyone else. The Eternal Son of God, has lowered Himself to our level, to live like one of us; to be our substitute. As we skim through the Gospel of Mark this week, Jesus shows that He is the Creator with all power, wearing sandals as a humble Servant. Marvel at such humility!
O most gracious Lord, I marvel that you stooped down to wear sandals and live your life as my substitute to save me, a lost and condemned sinner. All praise be to You. Amen.