Meditate On This One

Before the Passover celebration, Jesus knew that his hour had come to leave this world and return to his Father. He had loved his disciples during his ministry on earth, and now he loved them to the very end. It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him. [John 13.1-5]

On this day in 2016 I wrote Repent Of Self-Centeredness. Then, in 2021, I wrote What Kingdom Authority Really Looks Like. Both of these articles are worth taking the time to read and meditate on. However, today, as I read this account from John's Gospel once again, I experienced a much different viewpoint of this event - one I did not anticipate - one that caught me off-guard... 

We would all do well to meditate on this one.

John starts off by saying how much Jesus loved His disciples setting the background for everything that was about to take place. He also points out that Judas had already willingly given control to Satan. John furthermore highlights that God the Father had given Jesus all authority over everything as God's own Son. And then, John gives us a glimpse into an event that is almost embarrassing to read: The Son of God / Son of Man humbled and dressed himself (undressed actually) like a lowly servant and began to wash His disciples' feet.

As I read this account today, I experienced a sense of looking at something perhaps I shouldn't see. It is too intimate - too personal - too private - not meant for outsiders. It is certainly not something to be read casually or flippantly - it is holy - tragic - and profoundly spiritual. It is something the world can and will never understand. And yet, it is the most raw example of what the life of every genuine believer should look like.

But still, God saw fit for John to record this most intimate scene to reveal the extent of His love.

Father, may my thoughts revolve around Jesus' actions in John 13.1-5 today. As You reveal more and more to me about my relationship with You, may Jesus' actions in this passage have a 'grounding effect' preventing any 'loose wire' of pride in me. So be it.