We are often reminded to check our posture. How we stand? How we sit? Our even the proverbial stance in how we speak or deliver messaging.
As I was going through some things as I prepare to write my book. I have been struggling this week between a “top 3” ideas and “postures.” I prayed, worshiped, read, talked to friends, and discussed with groups. One thing I find I have to do often is check my posture. Am I chasing..or washing?
We have the opportunity to remember that as Jesus’ disciples today we are welcomed by Christ into this relationship. We are loved children of God. God’s desire is to have this deeply intimate, loving relationship with each one of us.
The foot washing ceremony recorded in John 13:1-17, allows us a window into the character of our Savior and at it’s root a ceremony is an act of LOVE. It is an opportunity for us to physically, as well as, spiritually acknowledge the relationship we have with God.
When we apply the lessons of this unique and instructive ritual in our lives, it gives us a better understanding of why some people struggle to find happiness yet never fully achieve it, and why others are brimful and running over with joy.
This example of Jesus is not only a commitment to his task, but a challenge within the believing community. It must be remembered that foot washing gave a sense of solidarity in the devotion of the believers in a community context. This devotion can only be understood through the key of surrender in sacrificial love. As Jesus was sent by the Father, so he sends those the Father has given him.
How did Jesus do it?
Just remember, it all starts in the heart.
He saw a need and moved to meet it. He didn’t wait for an invitation. He took the initiative. He took off his uniform of greatness and got down on his knees. He didn’t announce what he was going to do. He didn’t stand up and say, “Well, men, I’m Jesus and now I’m going to wash your feet.” He didn’t wait for a thank you and didn’t receive one either. That is what a servant does. He sees the need and moves to meet it.
The truth found in verse 13, “You call me teacher and Lord and rightfully so, for that is what I am.” The truth is you call me Lord. What is the command? Verses 14 and 15, “Now that I, your Lord and teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” The command is do as I have done. That’s the message. The promise lay in verse 17, “Now that you know these things, you’ll be blessed if you do them.”
Jesus did not call his followers to lead in the same way that others led.
He called those who would come after him to lead through their service to others. Jesus called those who would follow him to love as he had loved, with more concern for the other person than for ones’ self.
Seeing the foot washing anew in the light of Jesus’ death and resurrection, they came to understand that the only real power and authority belongs to God. We mortals who spend our lives trying to build up that sense of control for ourselves…chase an illusion.
Lord Jesus, for too long we have overlooked your words and we wonder why the world has overlooked us. Forgive us for our disobedience. Send the Holy Spirit to do a deep work of repentance within us. Grant that we might leave this place determined to become foot washers for you. As you were not ashamed to kneel before your brothers, may we not be ashamed to do as you have done, and so prove ourselves worthy to bear your holy name in the world. Amen.
(Referenced from Faithlife Sermons – faithlife.com)