Holy Week | Wednesday

2 During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him, 3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

John 13:2-5

Jesus knew. His understanding reached deeper and further than anyone else’s at the table. He knew what was already in motion, what had been planned from the beginning. He knew he was headed to the cross at the hand of his betrayer. He also knew Father God had “given all things into his hands.” Though betrayal, suffering, and death were guaranteed in the days ahead, they were not the end; Jesus knew his painful journey would ultimately lead him--and all those in his hand--to the presence of God.

With a confidence in his identity, authority, and destiny, Jesus laid aside his garments, his position, and his comfort to get intimately acquainted with the dirty condition of his followers’ feet. He wiped them “with the towel that was wrapped around him.” He is connected to the cleansing; without him, it doesn’t happen. Jesus gets close, unguarded, and completely invested in the act of service.

As a mom of five kids, I’ve scrubbed my share of dirty feet. I can picture the muddy ring around the edges, the muck between the toes, the grimy soles from hours spent sweating outside. I admit, sometimes I have to hold my breath while I clean off the stink at arm’s length. But Jesus gets closer. He moves toward his disciples in an act of humble, loving service. He washes their soles and explains to Peter, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with me” (John 13:8). 

Graciously, Jesus explains himself afterwards. He shares his well of understanding, saying, “If I then your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet” (13:14). Jesus’ week is progressing exactly as the Father has planned, with immense suffering just days away. Instead of being distracted by his own inevitable discomfort, Jesus continues to serve in love. He faithfully teaches kingdom lessons. He presses on with strong confidence in his Father. May we follow our Teacher this week.

Lord, forgive me for being distracted by seeking my own comfort. Forgive me for doubting the power of God and forgetting the confidence I have as your child. Wash my sin, Jesus, and keep my eyes fixed on you. Change my heart to love like you love, and to serve like you serve, knowing that the journey you have planned for me is for your glory and my good.