The whole idea of washing someone else’s feet (or having them wash yours) makes many people cringe. Just the thought of becoming that physically engaged with someone with whom we are not intimate makes us uncomfortable. And maybe that’s the point of Jesus’ actions as recorded in this passage.
Some time ago, I ministered to a family who’s oldest living member was dying. Dorothy[i] had spent many years helping, encouraging, giving, and living with her children, their spouses, her grand- and great-grandchildren. Now, she was withered, tired, confused, and unable to care for herself. One of the most precious expressions of love that her children gave to her was to tend her feet! They bathed them, clipped the nails and painted them, massaged them. Oh, they were a bit squeamish at first, but the more comfortable they became, the more they enjoyed it. And Dorothy’s response was to gain strength, to become more clear-headed, to interact! It formed a precious, intimate bond between Dorothy and her family that inspired all involved and made the ultimate good-bye much more bearable. They returned her life-long giving in an unmistakable way.
Jesus’ example to his disciples was also unmistakable. He was in his final week of life here on earth, and He was making His message as clear as possible. If his disciples wanted to show their love to God, to be “somebody” in this kingdom Jesus was dying to save, to make a real difference in this dark world, they would need to humble themselves. This humbling had to be enough to get them past their discomfort and self-consciousness to the point where they brought life to others, healing and strengthening, loving and giving, creating strong bonds.
Peter couldn’t handle it, first refusing and then demanding Jesus’ service. In His graceful way, Jesus gently brushed aside Peter’s selfishness and ministered to him anyway. He then called us all to follow His example – to love in unmistakable ways, humbly and gently. His “new” command was to carry on loving others where he would leave off, as humble servants.
Jesus’ example invites us to take a look at our own behavior. Is there someone to whom God has been guiding you recently? It may be someone with whom you are uncomfortable, but about whom you’ve been thinking often. Maybe you’ve been at odds and God is urging you to reconcile. Begin praying for them right now.
However, it can’t end there. Prayerfully consider how you can approach this person to whom God is guiding you. Is there something you have in common? Is there something you need to ask of them? Is there something you might do to serve them? Ask God to prepare your heart to approach them with love and humility.
As you plan, consider how you feel about them. Are you uncomfortable? Ask God to give you the courage to let down your guard when things get uncomfortable, and to humbly show love to the person to whom you’ve been sent.
Finally, go and serve them! As you do, know that Jesus goes with you. Your love will become unmistakable.
[i] This is a fictitious name for a real person which I used to respect her privacy.