SCRIPTURE: John 13:1-17
“He loved them to the end.” (John 13:1)
I have been journaling for years.
Reading through past entries can be interesting, entertaining, encouraging.
But also disheartening, when I realize how slow and stubborn a student I am.
Lessons the Lord has taught me in years past, I am still learning today.
I feel like Peter, big talker one moment, doubter and denier the next.
Like a see saw, up then down then up then down…
Then I see Jesus, getting on His knees, doing the servant’s job.
Yes, for slow, stubborn Peter, even for soon-to-betray-Him Judas.
Jesus loves them to the end, and I am encouraged.
Jesus loves me to the end too.
No excuse for continuing to be slow and stubborn.
With His help, I am trying to move forward, and I suppose there is progress.
But I never have to feel that my failures disqualify me for His love.
On the contrary, my failures only deepen His love and determination for me.
This gives me courage to move on, to make every effort to add to my faith.
He is with me to the very end, He loves me to the very end!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, Your patient and persistent love humbles and encourages me. Keep on washing me, that I may be whiter than snow.
This scripture reminds me to be not only a follower of Christ because of the words I use, but by my actions as well. To be a ‘servant’ to others and lead by example. Even to those in our lives that betray us or wrong us, that we still embrace them with Christ’s love such as Jesus did with Peter. Though can we blame Peter for being a little reluctant? Having Jesus who is the high Priest using such a powerful illustration when it’s us who should be washing His feet? He was performing a sacramental act. We do not deserve it but because of his grace, he washes us clean anyways, stinky feet and all!
Observation/Application
Footwashers.
Does this describe God’s people today? Does this describe me?
Jesus washed His disciples feet even though He knew that one would betray Him and the others would scatter and run. Yet in humility He washed their feet, leaving an example to them and to us/me. He loved unconditionally unto the very end leaving an example for His disciples to follow.
What would be a good description of Jesus followers today?
Footwashers.
His disciples would do as He did, giving us an example, to serve those around us and giving in Jesus’ name. We/I need to become as Christ to them helping them in their need. I serve Him as I meet the needs of those God has placed in my way. I must serve the risen Saviour this day by being a foot washer.
O Master, let me walk with Thee,
In lowly paths of service free;
Tell me Thy secret; help me bear
The strain of toil, the fret of care.
Help me the slow of heart to move
By some clear, winning word of love;
Teach me the wayward feet to stay,
And guide them in the homeward way.
O Master, let me walk with Thee,
Before the taunting Pharisee;
Help me to bear the sting of spite,
The hate of men who hide Thy light.
The sore distrust of souls sincere
Who cannot read Thy judgments clear,
The dullness of the multitude,
Who dimly guess that Thou art good.
Teach me Thy patience; still with Thee
In closer, dearer, company,
In work that keeps faith sweet and strong,
In trust that triumphs over wrong.
In hope that sends a shining ray
Far down the future’s broadening way,
In peace that only Thou canst give,
With Thee, O Master, let me live.