I know that in our culture the idea of feet washing is not something we generally know much about or think much of. With that in mind I think it is important to look a little closer at the story of Jesus washing the feet of the disciples. Understanding the significance of this act and the example of humility and service that is placed on display by this act.
We can find this story in John 13, let's read some of this chapter together.
"Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him. When Jesus came to Simon Peter, Peter said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.” “No,” Peter protested, “you will never ever wash my feet!” Jesus replied, “Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me.” Simon Peter exclaimed, “Then wash my hands and head as well, Lord, not just my feet!” Jesus replied, “A person who has bathed all over does not need to wash, except for the feet, to be entirely clean. And you disciples are clean, but not all of you.” For Jesus knew who would betray him. That is what he meant when he said, “Not all of you are clean.” After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you" (John 13:3-15).
I know that was a large passage to read through all at once, but I really just want to make sure that you are able to see the full picture. There are a lot of significant factors that are on display through this passage. I believe it is important to understand that feet washing has a bigger significance then many of us realize at first glance. I think that it is important to note that within the Bible, Jesus washing the feet of His disciples symbolizes His mission. By washing the feet of the disciples Jesus provides an example that shows a number of significant characteristics, which include: Service, Forgiveness, Treatment of others, and Preparation for His departure.
Briefly looking at these characteristics it is important to note that each area plays a role in shaping how needs are met and looking at the importance of serving and walking in the spirit of humility.
Service: looking at Jesus' act of washing feet, we see it demonstrated that Jesus was showing humility and setting an example for His followers to be able to follow in how they should serve others.
Forgiveness: this showcases Jesus' authority to forgive sins, and that of being able to cleanse people from sin.
Treatment of others: this act shows how Jesus' followers should treat one another, making sure to include those that they do not always agree with.
Preparation for departure: Jesus washing the feet of His disciples also plays a role in acting as a sign of preparation for Jesus' departure, it also worked as a sign of the spiritual cleansing of the disciples.
Washing feet was/is an act of putting others needs first.
This was a picture of Jesus' ultimate mission: to serve humanity through His humble death on the cross, a death that washed sin's away. It also served as a way to demonstrate humility and how Jesus intended for His disciples to act and treat each other.
Within the Jewish culture during this time it is important to note that foot washing was done for a number of reasons. One of the most obvious being that of hygiene. Foot washing also had a function in social and hospitality situations, such as visiting or hosting others. It was also done for religious ceremonies or service. It is also of note that people generally washed their own feet as feet were seen as being dirty and nonhygienic. In washing the feet of His disciples Jesus was humbling Himself and giving an example to His followers about how they should serve and treat others.
In order to be a real leader, you must also be a servant.
Much love friends,
Alianna
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