Lenten Reflections, Day 28

Tuesday, March 20th, 2012

Written by: Julie Parker

Reading: John 13: 12-14

The day had been long, the road had been dusty, everyone was tired, and uncomfortably warm like Florida on a hot spring day, as they gathered in the room for the Passover dinner. A pitcher of clean water, basin and towels had been placed in the room to wash their feet, but where was the servant to attend to this task?

As they waited, Jesus rose, took the bowl and knelt, unlaced the sandal of a Disciple and began washing his feet. There were protests, but Jesus quietly said "If I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash each other’s feet. I did this as an example so you should do as I have done for you. "

Jesus knew this was his last evening with his Disciples and one of the last lessons he could give them. It is an important one for all his Disciples right to this day. Jesus not only washed away the dirt of the day, but all doubt as to his love for his Disciples. Jesus gave us all a lesson that no task is beneath us when done with love in the name of our Lord.

Prayer
Dear Jesus, as your Disciple I ask you to help me remember that we sometimes serve you best in the most humble circumstances. Open my eyes to what you would have me do this day, so that I might please you. Thank you Jesus for always, always loving me. Amen

FAMILY MOMENT:

Today we see Jesus was the feet of his disciples. In Jesus’ time and custom, feet were gross (they wore sandals through the sand all day!) and it was the job of the lowest servant to wash the feet of the guests. Jesus took the role of the servant when he washed their feet. When Jesus commands us to "follow his example" does that mean we should go around washing people’s feet or does that mean we should serve each other? Today or tomorrow find a way to serve the members of your family. Set their place at the table, everyone take turns making someone else’s bed, or someone else’s lunch.
Jesus, thank you for setting the example of serving others. Help us to follow your example by serving others every day. Amen.