Cleansing

John 13:1-17

The hands that had created the world in which the disciples walked was washing away the filth on their feet. And only hours before Jesus would be arrested, beaten and crucified for each of them and us. Why did Jesus feel the need to do such a thing?

Because the Lord knew one pair of feet at the table would abandon and betray Him that very night. And the others would all flee as quickly as they could the moment Jesus is arrested. All except one pair who would deny knowing Him three times before the rooster would crow.

“Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them.  “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am.  Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.  Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” (John 13:12-17)

Jesus was still about His Father’s business. Even knowing that His work on earth was about to end and He would soon be taken off the earth. The washing the disciples’ feet was a symbolic act of cleansing and purifying, so that their spiritual walk following Him would be holy and spotless. And the neat thing is, He still does this today with each one who gives their heart to Him! Jesus still lovingly washes away our dust and grime with living water, then uses His own covering to refresh, restore, and make us fit for His kingdom work.

Blessings, Sue