John 13:5, 12, 14 (NRSV)
Read John 13:5, 12, 14 on biblegateway.com
Verse 5Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. Verse 12After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you? Verse 14So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.
Devotion
In Jesus' day, foot washing was a common practice before sharing a meal. It was a personal task, which even the lowliest of servants did not do for someone else. So when Jesus cleans the feet of his disciples, we understand Peter's shock and disgust. Peter knows that those of higher status should not serve those of lower status. But Jesus is not interested in social norms. The depth of his hospitality and service undermines all issues of status. As he will ultimately do on the cross, Jesus takes the form of a servant (Philippians 2:5-8).
Water invites us again to consider our calling. The water of foot washing evens the playing field. No one is lesser or greater. To become greater we need to become less, becoming servants to others. The astonishing outcome is our own transformation. We become most like Jesus when we become most like a servant. Our service becomes a watermark of participation in the life and death of Jesus.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, we are humbled that you loved us so much that you acted as a servant, washed our feet and even died for our sake. May we serve others as you serve us.
Amen.