Holy Week
Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. John 13:3-5
It was the night before the cross — the night when Jesus would be betrayed, denied, and abandoned. John tells us that Jesus knew all of this. He knew His power, His purpose, and His road to the cross. What did He do in light of all of that? The King of Kings took up a towel…
The One who spoke the world into being knelt before His creation, washing dirt from their feet. What a picture and display of humble love! Jesus did not have to lower Himself like this. But He did this to show us what kind of love He has for us. And to motivate us to have this kind of love for one another.
As He washed their feet, Jesus said, "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 should do as I have done to you.” (John 13:14-15) Jesus doesn’t just love us in general. He also gives us examples of this love in practice. His love is to be our love. "Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master.” (John 13:16)
With just mere hours before going to the cross, Jesus took the time to instruct and serve His disciples. The perfect Lord of life demonstrated His love for us perfectly. May He enable us to ever show that same love to each other, as He shows and instructs us.
Never so alone and lonely,
Longing with tormented heart
To be with Your dear ones only
For a quiet hour apart:
Sinless Lamb and fallen creature,
One last paschal meal to eat,
One last lesson as their teacher,
Washing Your disciples’ feet.
Lutheran Service Book 445:2