Encountering JesusSample

DISCOVER

The scene began with Peter's reluctance to have his feet washed by Jesus. In his passionate love for the Lord, he declared, "You shall never wash my feet." Peter's intentions were noble; he did not want his Lord to perform the humble task of a servant. But Jesus' response was profound: "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me." It is an invitation to surrender; to allow Jesus to cleanse and serve us. Peter, ever the impulsive disciple, quickly switched from refusal to wholehearted acceptance. He exclaimed, "Lord, not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!" In his zeal, Peter now desired a complete cleansing, recognizing the spiritual significance of Jesus' actions.

LEARN

Jesus then offers a deeper spiritual lesson. He explains that those who have had a bath are already clean, except for their feet. This symbolic washing represents the cleansing of daily sins and impurities. It's a reminder that as believers, we are already "bathed" in the forgiveness and salvation offered by Christ. However, as we journey through life, we need the continual cleansing of our "feet," the ongoing process of repentance and forgiveness. Something to see in this passage is the unspoken presence of Judas Iscariot. While Jesus washed his feet, He knew that Judas would soon betray Him. This serves as a powerful reminder that even though Judas was physically clean in this symbolic act, his heart was far from pure. The exterior cleansing did not touch the inner motives and intentions of Judas.

APPLY

This passage reminds us that outward religious practices, while important, do not guarantee a pure heart. Our motives and intentions are what truly matter to God. Judas' story is a solemn warning against the peril of betrayal. Despite witnessing Jesus' miracles and teachings, he allowed greed to lead him astray. Jesus' act of washing Judas' feet signifies His open invitation to all, even those who would betray Him. It is a demonstration of His boundless love and grace.