If Jesus sat down with us for some one-on-one time, what would we ask Him? More importantly, how would we respond to His questions?
Knowing He is omniscient God, the Living Word of God [John 1:1-3] who knows the “thoughts and intents of the heart” [Hebrews 4:12], compels us to answer honestly and fully. No hiding, deflecting, or excusing. Just honest answers.
John’s Gospel records several questions Jesus asked in His earthly ministry. By personally considering each of His questions, we face His same probing truth. By responding truthfully, may we be drawn into a more intimate walk with Him.
14th Question – Do You Know What I Have Done to You?
Have you ever had your feet washed—by a pastor, Bible study leader, or Christian counselor? Better yet, by your spouse? If so, you are in a very small minority. Honestly, it probably felt weird because you thought it was degrading to the foot-washer.
The disciples had a similar problem. Except, their foot-washer was the Creator, the promised Messiah, the anointed Christ.
Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. [John 13:3-5]
By focusing on the foot-washing and prideful confrontation by Peter, we overlook two critical elements. First, God the Father placed everything in Jesus’ hands—everything. Secondly, Jesus knew who He was, where He had come from, and where He was going—an exalted throne in Heaven.
Here was the Master of everything known and unknown to the human mind. The divine Son of God who came from Heaven and would return to be exalted in unparalleled glory. This Jesus, on bended knees to wash the filthy, cracked feet of His creation.
The whole scenario blew the disciples’ minds. So, Jesus explained the symbolism.
When He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know (understand) what I have done to you? 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 should do as I have done to you” [John 13:12-15, parenthesis and bold text added].
Response
Jesus’ question resonates in Christian hearts today. We are to follow His example. By washing feet? Maybe, if necessary. More importantly, He demonstrated the serving characteristic of those who belong to Him. Genuine humility is a family resemblance.
May we truly consider and fully understand what Jesus did. Instead of looking to rule, let us follow Christ’s example by humbly serving not only God but also our fellow man. May we serve Him out of gratitude for all He has done for us. No request is too small; no task is too great.
(Link to question 13; link to question 15)
