John 13:3-4 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist.
Verse 7 (see below) has long been a favorite of my “Why?”-oriented brain. To think that someday I might understand, even though there are so many things in this life that don’t make sense to me, brings me comfort. Though, I’m pretty sure that once I’m in a place to get all those answers that seem so important on this side of the veil, I don’t think I’ll care enough to ask the questions anymore.
John 13:5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
More important here, I think, is what Jesus is doing. He has power over all things. He came from God and is going to God. So what does He do? Wash the disciples feet—a filthy, dirty, servile, humbling job. He knew that Judas would betray Him and everyone else would desert Him and still He serves them in this incredibly personal, intimate way.
John 13:6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”
Lord, There are so many things in this life that I don’t understand. But Your intimate, humbling act of service to the disciples even though You knew what was coming seems pretty clear. You call me to humble myself in service to others, to show them they are worthwhile and worthy, even though they are human and fallible, even though they will disappoint. Help me, Jesus. Amen.
John 13:7 Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
Have a blessed day.