Introduction:
When words just aren’t enough...a PICTURE is worth a THOUSAND words!

In this moment Jesus was . . .
- Aware of this ultimate MOMENT in history.
- Setting the ultimate PERSONAL example.
- Teaching an ultimate SPIRITUAL lesson.
- Pointing to the ultimate SUPERNATURAL mission.

“He rose from His Kingly throne, and laid aside His garments of royalty: and took the towel of humanity and wrapped it around Himself. After that He poured out His precious blood, and made possible the cleansing of His disciples. And because He was truly human and divine, He was able to complete that which He commenced – to perfect them with the humanity wherewith He was girded.” F.B. Meyer

Is this foot washing scene a normal practice or a profound picture for us?
- Jesus purpose was to teach a truth – that they did not understand in the moment (v. 7)
- Jesus spoke of a “cleansing” that was beyond the physical act of foot washing (vv. 10-11)
- Jesus used this lesson to point toward his death -- and their calling as his “sent ones” (vv. 19-20)

“The main point of the text: I am giving you a spectacularly high standing as my representatives — the one who receives you receives God — and I am showing you that the only people who qualify for this high-standing are those who go low in humble service.” John Piper

In this moment the disciples were . . .
Deeply LOVED – v. 1

Love = An act of self-sacrifice, flowing from the heart, produced by the Holy Spirit –for the good of others and the glory of God

Humbly SERVED– vs. 2–5

Patiently TAUGHT– vs. 6–12

Authoritatively CALLED – vs. 13-20

Because of this moment we must . . . Aim High and Go Low!
- AIM for the CLEANSING of holy life and GO to the lost with the message of FORGIVENESS.

- AIM for the EXAMPLE of Jesus and GO to SERVE the real needs of others.

“In the kingdom of God, service is not a stepping stone to nobility-it is nobility, the only kind that is recognized.” T.W. Manson

“Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned.” Peter Marshall

“You can tell whether you are becoming a servant by how you act when people treat you like one.” Gordon MacDonald

- AIM for the REWARD of eternity and GO for a life of SACRIFICE on earth.

This Week I Will:

- Let this compelling picture from John 13:1-20 resonate in my mind. Ask the Lord to lead me to illustrate the gospel at least once each day, in a practical way, as I serve the real needs of someone He brings across my path.
- As I remember the ultimate sacrifice Jesus pointed to in this passage, seek to make a significant sacrifice of time, money or energy this week as I intentionally serve someone.