Holy Week Devotional | Wednesday

Wednesday of Holy Week

Although the Gospels do not mention this day, we’re going to consider Jesus washing his disciples' feet in John 13:1-17.

Jesus has gathered with his closest friends. The food is all set. Conversations are being had and Jesus knows the time has come time to depart out of this world to the Father (John 13:1). But even in this moment, his thoughts are of his friends. 

Most homes would’ve had the lowest servant of the house wash the feet of guests. Feet got dirty walking down dirt roads in open sandals. But there’s no servant on hand for Jesus and his disciples. Where is the humblest of servants to be found? Of course, Jesus takes on this role. Even in this hour, knowing what is to come, Jesus thinks beyond himself. Absolutely incredible. John writes these words decades after Jesus actually washed their feet. The gospel writer is still in awe of the gentleness and lowliness of Jesus.

It’s remarkable to consider that among all the feet that get washed this night, Judas is among them. Jesus knows what Judas is up to and yet he still bends down to serve him. Jesus’ love and servant's heart is given to everyone in his company. He has loved his own who were in the world (13:1), but this foot-washing points to the cross where Jesus displays that he has loved them to the end. 

As if it happened yesterday, John records that Jesus laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 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 13:4-5). The Son of David, the Messiah, bending down to serve and love his own. This is a Messiah who has come not to be served, but to serve.

Peter struggles with this act, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” (John 13:6). Jesus informs him he doesn’t understand at the moment, but afterward, he will. Jesus is referring to his imminent work on the cross. Peter doesn’t understand yet that he is covered by the grace of Jesus, he will be washed in the blood of the lamb, and is, therefore, clean. It’s a humbling thing to sit and receive the kindness of Jesus. This reminds us of that necessary component of confession, humility. 

Peter then takes it to the next level, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” (John 13:9). He wants a full-on bath. Again, Peter, you’re missing it. Jesus tells him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean (John 13:10). The cross is the only sacrifice required. Nothing can be added to it. You do not need another bath. All that is required is the humility to receive the grace and kindness of Jesus. And, of course, Jesus concludes the washing of their feet with an admonition to go and do likewise, “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.” (John 13:14).

As you reflect on this passage today, consider the kindness and lowliness of your Savior. Humble yourself to receive his service and grace. Take up his call to go and love one another with similar service and gentleness.