Washing His Disciples Feet

 

Love Like Jesus – John 13:1-17, 31b-35

Dear Friends, it is the night before the crucifixion. Jesus knows that His hour has come. He knows He will soon return to the Father. He knows that one of His own will betray Him. And yet, in this moment of deep awareness, John tells us:

“Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” (v. 1)

What does that love look like in action?

Jesus rises from the table, lays aside His outer garments, takes a towel, and begins to wash the disciples’ feet — the most menial and humbling task a servant would do. Peter is shocked and protests, but Jesus gently insists. When He finishes, He says:

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.” (vv. 14–15)

Then comes the new commandment that changes everything:

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (vv. 34–35)

This is not a suggestion. It is a command. And the standard is breathtaking — we are to love one another as Jesus has loved us.

That kind of love is humble, sacrificial, and unconditional. It stoops low. It serves even when it costs. It loves even those who will soon deny or betray. It is the love that took Jesus to the cross.

Today, Jesus is still calling His church to this kind of love. Not just warm feelings, but practical, towel-and-basin love that puts others first.

Pause in the quiet today. Where is Jesus asking you to “wash feet” in your own life — perhaps by serving someone who cannot repay you, forgiving someone who hurt you, or showing kindness when it feels undeserved?

The world will not recognise us by our buildings, our programmes, or even our correct doctrine. They will know we belong to Jesus by the way we love one another.

Point to Ponder: The greatest evidence of our faith is not how loudly we sing, but how humbly we serve.

Verse to Remember: “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35 ESV)

Question to Consider: This week, ask the Lord: “Whose feet do You want me to wash?” Then take one practical step of humble, Christ-like love toward that person.

Article written by Shaun Fereday, Leader @SFGH Church