REFLECTIONS

March 28th, 2021

It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love.

John 13:1

Passover Feast–Part One

Peter and John saw a man carrying a jar of water and just as Jesus told them to, they followed him to a place with a spacious upper room—perfect for a Passover celebration. Love filled the room that evening. Around the Passover feast, Jesus washed the disciples’ feet; predicted his death, whispered into his traitor’s ear; prayed for himself, his disciples, and for you and me. Then, with his disciples, Jesus crossed the Kidron Valley to face the worst.

The evening meal was being served, [Jesus] got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. [Then,] he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” / Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” / “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” / Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” (John 13:2, 4-8)

When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place… 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. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. (John 13:12, 14-16)

*******

(Jesus loved his disciples as one loves their children, and as a servant humbly serves his master. He cleansed their feet with water the same as He would come to cleanse their spirits and souls with the sacrifice of his body and blood. Not because they were worthy, but even if they weren’t. Nothing was required to receive it—only to believe. So, it makes me wonder if Jesus had this scene in mind when He said, “A new command I give you: Love one another, as I have loved you, love one another.” Love, not because they’re worthy, but even if they’re not.)

*******

Then. Jesus faced his disciples with a troubled spirit and testified, “I tell you the truth, one of you is going to betray me.” Then, dipping a piece of bread, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, son of Simon. As soon as Judas took the bread, Satan entered into him.

Jesus told him, “What you are about to do, do quickly,”… (John 13:21, 26-27)

You are the light of the world,

Richard +

www.reflectingthesavior.org


Click here for Printer Friendly Version