November 10 (Daily reading: Luke 22; John 13) Today’s commentary is adapted from my book, “We Love Because God First Loved Us,” pages 45-46.
On the eve of His crucifixion, Jesus did something that shocked His disciples. John 13 begins with words that make us think a trumpet will resound and something spectacular will happen: “Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come forth from God and was going back to God…” (v. 3). Acknowledging the divine authority given to the Son by the Father, we read further to see what event John will describe: “Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet” (v. 5). The divine, supreme power of God upon the earth on bended knee washing the feet of His disciples! He had told His disciples that He had not come to be served, but to serve, and now He gave them a strong object lesson.
This is the love of God through His Son Jesus on display and offered to those who believe in Him. What should be the result of such a magnificent love gift of God Himself washing their feet? “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you” (Jn. 13:14-15). Jesus, as both God and man, was the only man on earth whose words were fully backed up by His actions. Before Jesus washed their feet, it is doubtful there was one disciple who was ready to wash the feet of the others. When it was over, they may have been standing in line for the privilege of doing it! Lord, make us ready to follow Your example in serving others!
– Al Gary
Leave a Reply