Wash Feet
Scripture Reading — John 13:1-17
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.”
—John 13:14
Jesus set an example for us when he washed the feet of his disciples—an example of servant leadership. Washing the feet of one’s guests was not the job of a leader, host, or rabbi, but the chore of a servant. But Jesus took on that role to show his followers how they ought to care for one another.
In our family’s multiple moves, we’ve had many friends and loved ones come and help us get settled in our new surroundings. Unpacking boxes and scrubbing floors is hard work, but they did it to show their love for us—and their sacrifice gave us a glimpse of how God loves us. They loved us enough to get dirty and to strain their backs lifting furniture. But Jesus’ love comes from a much deeper sacrifice. He gave everything for us.
Sacrificial love for each other is the flavor that God wants our relationships to have. We should forgive as we have been forgiven. Forgive, help, sharpen, teach, admonish, accept, encourage, confess, and pray for one another. This is the kind of people we are now.
We love sacrificially because Jesus called us to love as he loves. We love not just when it is comfortable, but even when it’s challenging.
Are you faced with a sacrifice that you are not excited about making? How might God stretch you and grow you through that experience?
Lord, we are so humbled by the way you sacrificed your-self for us. May we follow your example and live sacrifi-cially with those around us. In your name we pray. Amen.
About the author — Steven and Deb Koster
Steven and Deb Koster have a passion for marriages, families, and spiritual growth in the home. Both are ordained ministers in the Christian Reformed Church in North America. Steven formerly served as editor of Today and director of ReFrame's English-language outreach. Deb leads Family Fire, ReFrame’s family ministry at FamilyFire.com and on Facebook. The Kosters have three children.
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