May 14, 2025 • 23 mins
How does the Messiah demonstrate true greatness through an act of humble service? Discover the transformative power of love and humility in this moving episode.
In this episode, Jesus exemplifies ultimate humility by washing the feet of His disciples, teaching them the profound lesson of servitude and love. The disciples, bewildered by this act, are encouraged to follow His example in serving others selflessly.
Today's Bible verse is John 13:15, from the King James Version.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
For I have given you an example that you should
also do as I have done to you. John thirteen fifteen.
Dear Lord Jesus, we come before you with hearts full
of gratitude for your unwavering love and devotion. Thank you
(00:20):
for setting a perfect example of service and humility as
you wash the feet of your disciples. Your sacrifice on
the cross, where you laid down your life for us
is the ultimate act of love and service. Than we
are forever grateful. We recognize that without your guidance and strength,
(00:44):
we are incapable of truly loving and serving others as
you've commanded us. Please empower each of us to lay
down our comforts, our conveniences, and our egos so that
others may help us to see opportunities to serve those
around us, just as you have served us. Give us
(01:08):
the strength and courage to follow your example in our
daily lives, and may we be instruments of your love
and grace, bringing hope and healing to a world in need.
We ask this in your precious name, Jesus. Amen, Thank
(01:34):
you for praying with me. You are listening to the
Jesus Podcast stories inspired by the Gospel to entertain enlighten
and encourage. Be sure to follow this podcast on whatever
platform you're listening to. Judas stood before the Chief Priests.
(01:55):
His legs trembled. He did everything he could to make
sure his voice didn't.
Speaker 2 (02:03):
Yes, I know where Jesus of Nazareth is staying.
Speaker 3 (02:07):
And you say you're willing to turn him over to us.
You are one of his followers, are you not? What
brings you to such a sudden change of heart?
Speaker 4 (02:16):
He says he's the Messiah, and I believe it, but
he doesn't act like it. We have pinched every last
mite for three years, and what do we have to
show for it. He could turn stones into bread or
bring all the nations to bow down to him, but
all we do is travel, teach and try not to
get stoned.
Speaker 1 (02:36):
The Chief Priest could sense that Judas was distraught very well.
Speaker 3 (02:41):
As long as we're all aligned on the ngal, I
believe we can come up with a mutually beneficial contract.
We'll discuss an amount with the Temple treasury, and you
will secure a place away from the people where we
can apprehend Jesus once and for all.
Speaker 1 (02:59):
The Chief Priest led Judas to the door. He stepped
out into the temple courtyards. As worshipers made their way
in and out of the temple to make their sacrifices.
His eyes darted around, looking for any familiar faces. The
coast was clear. His heart pounded heavily in his chest.
(03:20):
He closed his eyes tightly and breathed slowly. His mind
darted to Jesus and the disciples. He looked up at
the tawny sky. Evening was approaching.
Speaker 2 (03:32):
They'll likely be preparing the meal. If I'm quick, no
one should notice I've been.
Speaker 1 (03:36):
Gone, Judas thought to himself. As he hurried down the street.
He bumped into the merchants closing up their shops for
the evening. He glanced over his shoulder in a nervous reflex.
He felt himself collide with the jar. He looked down
just as it spilled water along the dusty street.
Speaker 5 (03:54):
In a hurry. I see late for passover.
Speaker 2 (03:57):
I'm so sorry. Please allow me to get that for you.
Speaker 1 (04:00):
Judas promptly set the vessel upright, but the shopkeeper seemed
more concerned with Judas than he was with the jar.
Speaker 6 (04:07):
Are you all right?
Speaker 3 (04:08):
You similar too frazzled, especially on the day of celebration
like today.
Speaker 2 (04:14):
Um, frazzled. Yes, you could say that.
Speaker 5 (04:18):
May I do not be with you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (04:22):
Judas considered the man's words peace. That was something Judas
hadn't felt sometime. The irony in the man's words was
not lost on the rogue disciple. Judas muttered to thanks
and continued on his sandals, sunk into the mirie clay
he had unintentionally created in the ground.
Speaker 5 (04:42):
He looked down.
Speaker 1 (04:44):
There was no time to care about his feet.
Speaker 5 (04:46):
He needed to get.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
To the passover meal before anyone noticed. He was gone.
Speaker 7 (04:53):
Are you in pain after walking, running, or even just standing.
It's not your feet, it's your shoes. This summer, switch
to Gediphi shoes with patentive versoshock technology, which aligns your body,
provides superior shock absorption and trampoline like energy return. Gdphi
offers souls and styles for any activity, plus two free orthotics.
(05:17):
Whether you're an athlete, a busy parent, or always on
the go, Gdiphi shoes deliver the comfort and versatility your
fee crave. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to unparalleled
support this summer. Enjoy a special summer offer. Visit gdiphi
dot com and get twenty dollars off your order of
one hundred dollars or more with code Prey. Experience the
(05:40):
miracle of Ultimate Comfort with g Deiphi Shoes. Visit g
d e f y dot com.
Speaker 8 (05:49):
Today, the great and mighty creator of the universe knelt
down and washed the dirty feet of his followers. This
type of humility is staggering and challenges our notions on greatness.
This is the Jesus Podcast I'm Ethan with pray dot Com.
Today we continue through our miniseries on Jesus, disrupting the
(06:12):
status quo and showing us a new way to live.
This series showcases jesus teachings and passion, and we'll learn
about God's heart for people and his kingdom. To day,
we're going to reflect on a powerful moment in the
life of Jesus, a moment that beautifully illustrates his heart
and his mission. To day's story is inspired by John
(06:34):
Chapter thirteen, verses one through seventeen, where Jesus, the King
of Kings, takes up a towel and washes the feet
of his disciples. This act of humility not only demonstrated
his love but also pointed to something much deeper. As
we unpack this story. We'll see how Jesus didn't just
wash their feet. He carried their dirt and ours all
(06:58):
the way to the cross.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
Back at the house, the disciples were busily working their
way around the kitchen in preparation for the passover. The
room was perfumed with bowls of apples, cinnamon, and fresh
herbs that sat atop the counter. The fire carried the
smell of unleavened bread baking. A flagon of wine was
(07:22):
perched at the center of the table, surrounded by wooden
cups of various shapes and sizes. Judas entered quietly through
the front door just as Simon stepped in through the back.
In his arms, he had a wide tray with a
whole roasted lamb. He set it down on the table
with the rest of the food the disciples had brought over.
Speaker 5 (07:44):
The lamb looks exquisite. I'd kill for a taste right now.
Speaker 6 (07:49):
That's a little on the nose, don't you think, Simon,
I thought your days of zealotry were over.
Speaker 5 (07:54):
Very funny, John, you know what I meant.
Speaker 1 (07:57):
Judas slithered back to the back of the room like
a serpent. The jostling disciples didn't seem to notice, but
Jesus did. He was sitting at the table and nodded
at Judas as he welcomed him in.
Speaker 6 (08:12):
Judas, we were getting worried. It looks like we're all
here now. If you would come and have a seat
round the table with me, we can do the last
of the preparations for the meal.
Speaker 1 (08:22):
The disciples looked at each other in confusion. They had
spent all afternoon preparing as Jesus had instructed them to do,
but they were hesitant to admit they had forgotten something.
Everything else in here is done. What else is there
to prepare?
Speaker 5 (08:38):
Why? Yourselves? Of course?
Speaker 1 (08:41):
Thomas turned back to see if any of the other
disciples understood what Jesus meant by this. Their stairs confirmed
that they were just as lost as he was. Jesus
coaxed them to the table, gesturing for them to take
their seats. Each of the disciples was to be off
their feet, Lord, aren't you going to eat with us?
Speaker 6 (09:04):
Yes, Peter, but there's something very important that must be
done first.
Speaker 1 (09:09):
Once they took their seats, Jesus rose to his feet
without another word. Jesus stepped out.
Speaker 5 (09:16):
Of the room.
Speaker 1 (09:17):
The silence lingered. A minute later, Jesus returned, carrying a
jug of water and an empty basin. The water sloshed
as Jesus carefully brought it to the table. He set
the vessels down on the ground with a gentle thud.
The disciples were puzzled, but said nothing. Jesus left the
(09:37):
room once more. When he returned, the disciples saw that
he had taken off his outer robes and replaced them
with a towel tied around his waist. Though it was clean,
the rag was visibly stained with dirt. Jesus walked back.
Speaker 5 (09:54):
Over to the jug.
Speaker 1 (09:55):
He lifted it from the ground and began to pour
some out into the in a steady stream. It pitter
pattered against the wood. He knelt down beside the basin
that was positioned in front of Thomas. The disciple looked
at Jesus bewildered. He tried to speak, but was unable
to form any words. Jesus met his eye. Thomas FROs
(10:20):
he had never seen Jesus like this. The same man
that Thomas had seen preached a thousands and gave sight
to the blind, knelt before him in the garments of
a servant.
Speaker 6 (10:34):
If you would.
Speaker 1 (10:35):
Jesus's voice was soft as he took Thomas's foot in
his hand. He loosed the straps of the sandal to
the sound of caked on mud breaking, and was beginning
to sink in what Jesus was doing. He was going
to wash their feet. The Messiah had taken on the
job of a servant. Without any hesitation, He delicately wiped
(10:59):
off thomas Life left foot, then his right. He continued
to do this around the table. Once he finished with
one disciple, he would affably move on to the next.
Jesus came to Judas and looked up at the disciple.
Judas's eyes were filled with the mix of fear, panic,
(11:20):
and disillusionment. Jesus spoke no louder than a whisper, so
only the lone disciple could hear.
Speaker 6 (11:27):
Come, yes, even you, Judas.
Speaker 1 (11:31):
Judas heart sank. What had he meant by this? Did
he know? Judas wondered silently to himself. Surely, if Jesus
knew Judas planned to betray him, he wouldn't be washing
his feet along with everyone else's. Judas stuck out his
feet and allowed Jesus to wipe them free of the mud.
(11:52):
As he watched. He thought about his run in with
the merchant in the street. He recalled the man's blessing
of an eye's presence and peace. He questioned his collusion
with the chief priests, but a weight in his heart
anchored him to his decision to betray the rabbi. He
(12:13):
snapped out of his days. As Jesus tied his sandals
back to his feet, he desperately tried to catch a
glimpse of any sign that Jesus was aware of his plans.
But to Judas, Jesus had treated him just as he
always had and showed no partiality in the washing.
Speaker 5 (12:32):
Of his feet.
Speaker 1 (12:34):
Jesus moved the basin over and knelt down once more.
As Jesus leaned over, Peter sat upright in his chair.
He pulled his feet back slightly. He had been given
time to think as the other disciples feet were washed.
He mustered up the courage to question Jesus' actions.
Speaker 5 (12:55):
Lord, are you going to wash my feet?
Speaker 1 (12:58):
Jesus remained still without looking up. He responded, I understand
that right now you do not realize what I'm doing,
but I promise later you will understand. Peter thought hard,
Was this a challenge a test. Peter was one of
the three who knew jesus true identity. The Son of
(13:19):
God had been transformed before his very eyes, and now
he was before him in the dirt, preparing to clean
his feet. Peter couldn't allow himself to believe that the
greatest among them had taken the lowest position.
Speaker 5 (13:35):
No, I cannot allow it.
Speaker 2 (13:37):
You shall never wash my feet.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
Peter was proud of his determination. He hadn't succumbed to
allow Jesus to perform such a humiliating act on him.
Jesus gradually lifted his face to meet Peter's eye line. Peter,
unless I wash you, you have no part with me.
Jesus didn't raise his voice when he spoke, but Peter
(14:00):
felt terror ripple through his entire being when he heard
the word spoken. Peter realized that he had mistaken the
lord's act of humility as an act of humiliation. He
couldn't fathom having no part with Jesus. Every fear that
Jesus washed away seemed to flood into Peter's soul in
(14:23):
an instant. He swung the pendulum hard in the opposite
direction in his desperation to rectify the situation. Now it
was his turn to humble himself to the work Jesus
was doing.
Speaker 5 (14:37):
Then, Lord, not just my feet, but my hands and
my head as well. Watch all of me, for I
am a sinner.
Speaker 1 (14:46):
When Peter first met Jesus, he begged the rabbi to
depart from him because he was a sinner. Now the
weight of sin was the very reason he begged Jesus
to remain with him.
Speaker 6 (14:59):
Those who have taken bath are already clean that they
only need to wash their feet clean of the dirt
picked up throughout the day. Those who have taken a
bath are already clean. They only need to wash their
feet clean of the dirt picked up throughout the day.
As my followers, you are all already clean, though I
will admit not every one of you is clean.
Speaker 1 (15:22):
Judas tensed, was this an acknowledgment of his knowing, But
Jesus didn't stop to allow Judas to process any further.
Speaker 6 (15:32):
I am simply here to remind you to rid yourselves
of the day's filth.
Speaker 1 (15:37):
With an enlightened understanding of jesus intentions, the disciples extended
their gratitude as Jesus finished washing their feet. Once completed,
he pressed himself on to his feet with a jug
and basin in hand. The disciples marveled at the sight.
The towel around Jesus's waste was filthy. The dirt and
(16:00):
mud that once covered them now clung to him. Jesus
made his way out of the room once more. He returned,
cleaned and in his regular garments. Once more, he took
the empty seat at the table.
Speaker 6 (16:16):
Do you understand what I've done for you?
Speaker 1 (16:18):
The disciples didn't respond. They were still grappling with the
gesture of Jesus' servanthood.
Speaker 6 (16:25):
You call me teacher and lord, and you are right
to do so, for that is what I am. And
as your lord and teacher, I have washed your feet.
As my disciples, you should wash one another's feet. Everything
I have done tonight I have done as an example
for you what you have seen me do. As your master,
(16:49):
I exhort you to do as well, for no servant
is greater than his master, nor as a servant greater
than the one who sent him. Wherever you go, do
what I have taught you to do, and you.
Speaker 5 (17:03):
Will be blessed.
Speaker 1 (17:04):
Once again, Jesus was radically upending their understanding of him
and his kingdom. The Master had become the servant they
were to follow in his example of humility. The world
knew they needed a messiah, but the ways they would
(17:26):
be blessed by him were unimaginable. He would take their
own filth upon himself so that they could be made clean.
Speaker 8 (17:44):
Imagine the scene. It's the night before Jesus would be crucified.
He's gathered with his disciples for what would be their
final meal together. The air is thick with tension and
unspoken worries. Jesus knew what was about to happen. He
knew that his hour had come, that he was about
to leave this world and return to the Father. But
instead of focusing on his own impending suffering, Jesus's thoughts
(18:08):
were on his disciples. The Bible tells Us, having loved
his own who were in the world, he loved them
to the end. John chapter thirteen, verse one. In the
middle of this meal, Jesus does something unexpected. He gets up,
takes off his outer garments, wraps a towel around his waist,
and begins to wash the disciples feet. This wasn't just
(18:29):
any task, It was the job of the lowest servant.
Speaker 5 (18:32):
In the household.
Speaker 8 (18:33):
In those days, people wore sandals and walked on dusty roads,
so foot washing was unnecessary but lowly task. You can
almost see the disciples puzzled. Looks Peter, who often speaks
up first, even objects, Lord, are you washing my feet?
John chapter thirteen, verse six. Jesus replies, what I am doing.
(18:55):
You do not understand now, but you will know after
this John thirteen, verse seven. Peter, still not getting it,
insists you shall never wash my feet. But Jesus, ever patient, says,
if I do not wash you, you have no part
with me. John chapter thirteen, verse eight. Now let's pause
(19:16):
and think about the symbolism. Here, Jesus is washing their
feet with a towel, and that towel is getting dirty.
The felt from their feet is transferred onto the towel.
This is a vivid picture of what Jesus would do
on the cross. He didn't just wash away dirt. He
took on our dirtiness, our sin, our shame, our guilt.
(19:38):
Just as that towel became dirty, Jesus bore our sins
in his body on the cross. He wore our dirtiness
so that we could be made clean. The act of
washing feet wasn't just about physical cleanliness, It was about
spiritual cleansing. It was a foreshadowing of the ultimate act
of service that Jesus would perform on the cross. He
(20:00):
didn't come to be served, but to serve and to
give his life as a ransom for many. Mark chapter ten,
verse forty five. After washing their feed, Jesus explains the lesson.
He says, you call me teacher and Lord, and you say, well, for.
Speaker 5 (20:15):
So I am.
Speaker 8 (20:17):
If I, then your lord and teacher have washed your feet,
you also ought to wash one another's feet. John chapter thirteen,
Verses thirteen and fourteen. Jesus isn't just telling them to
start a foot washing ministry, though that's a beautiful practice
in itself. He's teaching them and us that true greatness
in his kingdom is found in serving others. Jesus set
(20:40):
the bar for humility and service incredibly high. If the
Lord of all creation is willing to wash feet, what
does that say about how we should treat one another.
If the King of kings didn't consider any task too lowly,
the no task is beneath us. This act of foot
washing is a perfect example of the three loves we
(21:01):
talked about last time, love God, love one another, and
love on mission. Love God. Jesus's actions were rooted in
his love.
Speaker 5 (21:11):
For the Father.
Speaker 8 (21:12):
He knew who he was, where he came from, and
where he was going John Chapter thirteen, verse three. His
service flowed out of his secure relationship with the Father.
When we love God, we naturally express that love in
humble service love one another. Jesus didn't just talk about love,
he showed it. He loved his disciples to the end,
(21:36):
and he demonstrated that love by washing their feet. We
are called to do the same, to serve one another
in love, even when it's uncomfortable, even when it's messy.
Love on mission. Jesus's mission was to serve and to save.
By washing his disciples feet, he showed them the kind
of selfless love that would characterize their mission to the world.
(21:58):
As we go out on mission, were called to serve others,
to get our hands dirty, just as Jesus did. So
what does this mean for us today? It's simple, go
and do likewise. Serve one another with humility, don't be
afraid to get your hands dirty, to step into the
messiness of life, and to show the love of Christ.
(22:19):
In practical ways. Whether it's through a kind word, a
helping hand, or a listening ear, we have countless opportunities
to wash one another's feet. Let's remember that Jesus wore
our dirtiness on the cross so that we could be clean.
Let's follow his example, serving one another with the same
love and humility that he showed us. Because when we do,
(22:44):
we're not just washing feet. We're reflecting the heart of
Jesus to a world that desperately needs him.
Speaker 7 (23:00):
Yeah.
For I have given you an example that you should
also do as I have done to you. John thirteen fifteen.
Dear Lord Jesus, we come before you with hearts full
of gratitude for your unwavering love and devotion. Thank you
(00:20):
for setting a perfect example of service and humility as
you wash the feet of your disciples. Your sacrifice on
the cross, where you laid down your life for us
is the ultimate act of love and service. Than we
are forever grateful. We recognize that without your guidance and strength,
(00:44):
we are incapable of truly loving and serving others as
you've commanded us. Please empower each of us to lay
down our comforts, our conveniences, and our egos so that
others may help us to see opportunities to serve those
around us, just as you have served us. Give us
(01:08):
the strength and courage to follow your example in our
daily lives, and may we be instruments of your love
and grace, bringing hope and healing to a world in need.
We ask this in your precious name, Jesus. Amen, Thank
(01:34):
you for praying with me. You are listening to the
Jesus Podcast stories inspired by the Gospel to entertain enlighten
and encourage. Be sure to follow this podcast on whatever
platform you're listening to. Judas stood before the Chief Priests.
(01:55):
His legs trembled. He did everything he could to make
sure his voice didn't.
Speaker 2 (02:03):
Yes, I know where Jesus of Nazareth is staying.
Speaker 3 (02:07):
And you say you're willing to turn him over to us.
You are one of his followers, are you not? What
brings you to such a sudden change of heart?
Speaker 4 (02:16):
He says he's the Messiah, and I believe it, but
he doesn't act like it. We have pinched every last
mite for three years, and what do we have to
show for it. He could turn stones into bread or
bring all the nations to bow down to him, but
all we do is travel, teach and try not to
get stoned.
Speaker 1 (02:36):
The Chief Priest could sense that Judas was distraught very well.
Speaker 3 (02:41):
As long as we're all aligned on the ngal, I
believe we can come up with a mutually beneficial contract.
We'll discuss an amount with the Temple treasury, and you
will secure a place away from the people where we
can apprehend Jesus once and for all.
Speaker 1 (02:59):
The Chief Priest led Judas to the door. He stepped
out into the temple courtyards. As worshipers made their way
in and out of the temple to make their sacrifices.
His eyes darted around, looking for any familiar faces. The
coast was clear. His heart pounded heavily in his chest.
(03:20):
He closed his eyes tightly and breathed slowly. His mind
darted to Jesus and the disciples. He looked up at
the tawny sky. Evening was approaching.
Speaker 2 (03:32):
They'll likely be preparing the meal. If I'm quick, no
one should notice I've been.
Speaker 1 (03:36):
Gone, Judas thought to himself. As he hurried down the street.
He bumped into the merchants closing up their shops for
the evening. He glanced over his shoulder in a nervous reflex.
He felt himself collide with the jar. He looked down
just as it spilled water along the dusty street.
Speaker 5 (03:54):
In a hurry. I see late for passover.
Speaker 2 (03:57):
I'm so sorry. Please allow me to get that for you.
Speaker 1 (04:00):
Judas promptly set the vessel upright, but the shopkeeper seemed
more concerned with Judas than he was with the jar.
Speaker 6 (04:07):
Are you all right?
Speaker 3 (04:08):
You similar too frazzled, especially on the day of celebration
like today.
Speaker 2 (04:14):
Um, frazzled. Yes, you could say that.
Speaker 5 (04:18):
May I do not be with you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (04:22):
Judas considered the man's words peace. That was something Judas
hadn't felt sometime. The irony in the man's words was
not lost on the rogue disciple. Judas muttered to thanks
and continued on his sandals, sunk into the mirie clay
he had unintentionally created in the ground.
Speaker 5 (04:42):
He looked down.
Speaker 1 (04:44):
There was no time to care about his feet.
Speaker 5 (04:46):
He needed to get.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
To the passover meal before anyone noticed. He was gone.
Speaker 7 (04:53):
Are you in pain after walking, running, or even just standing.
It's not your feet, it's your shoes. This summer, switch
to Gediphi shoes with patentive versoshock technology, which aligns your body,
provides superior shock absorption and trampoline like energy return. Gdphi
offers souls and styles for any activity, plus two free orthotics.
(05:17):
Whether you're an athlete, a busy parent, or always on
the go, Gdiphi shoes deliver the comfort and versatility your
fee crave. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to unparalleled
support this summer. Enjoy a special summer offer. Visit gdiphi
dot com and get twenty dollars off your order of
one hundred dollars or more with code Prey. Experience the
(05:40):
miracle of Ultimate Comfort with g Deiphi Shoes. Visit g
d e f y dot com.
Speaker 8 (05:49):
Today, the great and mighty creator of the universe knelt
down and washed the dirty feet of his followers. This
type of humility is staggering and challenges our notions on greatness.
This is the Jesus Podcast I'm Ethan with pray dot Com.
Today we continue through our miniseries on Jesus, disrupting the
(06:12):
status quo and showing us a new way to live.
This series showcases jesus teachings and passion, and we'll learn
about God's heart for people and his kingdom. To day,
we're going to reflect on a powerful moment in the
life of Jesus, a moment that beautifully illustrates his heart
and his mission. To day's story is inspired by John
(06:34):
Chapter thirteen, verses one through seventeen, where Jesus, the King
of Kings, takes up a towel and washes the feet
of his disciples. This act of humility not only demonstrated
his love but also pointed to something much deeper. As
we unpack this story. We'll see how Jesus didn't just
wash their feet. He carried their dirt and ours all
(06:58):
the way to the cross.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
Back at the house, the disciples were busily working their
way around the kitchen in preparation for the passover. The
room was perfumed with bowls of apples, cinnamon, and fresh
herbs that sat atop the counter. The fire carried the
smell of unleavened bread baking. A flagon of wine was
(07:22):
perched at the center of the table, surrounded by wooden
cups of various shapes and sizes. Judas entered quietly through
the front door just as Simon stepped in through the back.
In his arms, he had a wide tray with a
whole roasted lamb. He set it down on the table
with the rest of the food the disciples had brought over.
Speaker 5 (07:44):
The lamb looks exquisite. I'd kill for a taste right now.
Speaker 6 (07:49):
That's a little on the nose, don't you think, Simon,
I thought your days of zealotry were over.
Speaker 5 (07:54):
Very funny, John, you know what I meant.
Speaker 1 (07:57):
Judas slithered back to the back of the room like
a serpent. The jostling disciples didn't seem to notice, but
Jesus did. He was sitting at the table and nodded
at Judas as he welcomed him in.
Speaker 6 (08:12):
Judas, we were getting worried. It looks like we're all
here now. If you would come and have a seat
round the table with me, we can do the last
of the preparations for the meal.
Speaker 1 (08:22):
The disciples looked at each other in confusion. They had
spent all afternoon preparing as Jesus had instructed them to do,
but they were hesitant to admit they had forgotten something.
Everything else in here is done. What else is there
to prepare?
Speaker 5 (08:38):
Why? Yourselves? Of course?
Speaker 1 (08:41):
Thomas turned back to see if any of the other
disciples understood what Jesus meant by this. Their stairs confirmed
that they were just as lost as he was. Jesus
coaxed them to the table, gesturing for them to take
their seats. Each of the disciples was to be off
their feet, Lord, aren't you going to eat with us?
Speaker 6 (09:04):
Yes, Peter, but there's something very important that must be
done first.
Speaker 1 (09:09):
Once they took their seats, Jesus rose to his feet
without another word. Jesus stepped out.
Speaker 5 (09:16):
Of the room.
Speaker 1 (09:17):
The silence lingered. A minute later, Jesus returned, carrying a
jug of water and an empty basin. The water sloshed
as Jesus carefully brought it to the table. He set
the vessels down on the ground with a gentle thud.
The disciples were puzzled, but said nothing. Jesus left the
(09:37):
room once more. When he returned, the disciples saw that
he had taken off his outer robes and replaced them
with a towel tied around his waist. Though it was clean,
the rag was visibly stained with dirt. Jesus walked back.
Speaker 5 (09:54):
Over to the jug.
Speaker 1 (09:55):
He lifted it from the ground and began to pour
some out into the in a steady stream. It pitter
pattered against the wood. He knelt down beside the basin
that was positioned in front of Thomas. The disciple looked
at Jesus bewildered. He tried to speak, but was unable
to form any words. Jesus met his eye. Thomas FROs
(10:20):
he had never seen Jesus like this. The same man
that Thomas had seen preached a thousands and gave sight
to the blind, knelt before him in the garments of
a servant.
Speaker 6 (10:34):
If you would.
Speaker 1 (10:35):
Jesus's voice was soft as he took Thomas's foot in
his hand. He loosed the straps of the sandal to
the sound of caked on mud breaking, and was beginning
to sink in what Jesus was doing. He was going
to wash their feet. The Messiah had taken on the
job of a servant. Without any hesitation, He delicately wiped
(10:59):
off thomas Life left foot, then his right. He continued
to do this around the table. Once he finished with
one disciple, he would affably move on to the next.
Jesus came to Judas and looked up at the disciple.
Judas's eyes were filled with the mix of fear, panic,
(11:20):
and disillusionment. Jesus spoke no louder than a whisper, so
only the lone disciple could hear.
Speaker 6 (11:27):
Come, yes, even you, Judas.
Speaker 1 (11:31):
Judas heart sank. What had he meant by this? Did
he know? Judas wondered silently to himself. Surely, if Jesus
knew Judas planned to betray him, he wouldn't be washing
his feet along with everyone else's. Judas stuck out his
feet and allowed Jesus to wipe them free of the mud.
(11:52):
As he watched. He thought about his run in with
the merchant in the street. He recalled the man's blessing
of an eye's presence and peace. He questioned his collusion
with the chief priests, but a weight in his heart
anchored him to his decision to betray the rabbi. He
(12:13):
snapped out of his days. As Jesus tied his sandals
back to his feet, he desperately tried to catch a
glimpse of any sign that Jesus was aware of his plans.
But to Judas, Jesus had treated him just as he
always had and showed no partiality in the washing.
Speaker 5 (12:32):
Of his feet.
Speaker 1 (12:34):
Jesus moved the basin over and knelt down once more.
As Jesus leaned over, Peter sat upright in his chair.
He pulled his feet back slightly. He had been given
time to think as the other disciples feet were washed.
He mustered up the courage to question Jesus' actions.
Speaker 5 (12:55):
Lord, are you going to wash my feet?
Speaker 1 (12:58):
Jesus remained still without looking up. He responded, I understand
that right now you do not realize what I'm doing,
but I promise later you will understand. Peter thought hard,
Was this a challenge a test. Peter was one of
the three who knew jesus true identity. The Son of
(13:19):
God had been transformed before his very eyes, and now
he was before him in the dirt, preparing to clean
his feet. Peter couldn't allow himself to believe that the
greatest among them had taken the lowest position.
Speaker 5 (13:35):
No, I cannot allow it.
Speaker 2 (13:37):
You shall never wash my feet.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
Peter was proud of his determination. He hadn't succumbed to
allow Jesus to perform such a humiliating act on him.
Jesus gradually lifted his face to meet Peter's eye line. Peter,
unless I wash you, you have no part with me.
Jesus didn't raise his voice when he spoke, but Peter
(14:00):
felt terror ripple through his entire being when he heard
the word spoken. Peter realized that he had mistaken the
lord's act of humility as an act of humiliation. He
couldn't fathom having no part with Jesus. Every fear that
Jesus washed away seemed to flood into Peter's soul in
(14:23):
an instant. He swung the pendulum hard in the opposite
direction in his desperation to rectify the situation. Now it
was his turn to humble himself to the work Jesus
was doing.
Speaker 5 (14:37):
Then, Lord, not just my feet, but my hands and
my head as well. Watch all of me, for I
am a sinner.
Speaker 1 (14:46):
When Peter first met Jesus, he begged the rabbi to
depart from him because he was a sinner. Now the
weight of sin was the very reason he begged Jesus
to remain with him.
Speaker 6 (14:59):
Those who have taken bath are already clean that they
only need to wash their feet clean of the dirt
picked up throughout the day. Those who have taken a
bath are already clean. They only need to wash their
feet clean of the dirt picked up throughout the day.
As my followers, you are all already clean, though I
will admit not every one of you is clean.
Speaker 1 (15:22):
Judas tensed, was this an acknowledgment of his knowing, But
Jesus didn't stop to allow Judas to process any further.
Speaker 6 (15:32):
I am simply here to remind you to rid yourselves
of the day's filth.
Speaker 1 (15:37):
With an enlightened understanding of jesus intentions, the disciples extended
their gratitude as Jesus finished washing their feet. Once completed,
he pressed himself on to his feet with a jug
and basin in hand. The disciples marveled at the sight.
The towel around Jesus's waste was filthy. The dirt and
(16:00):
mud that once covered them now clung to him. Jesus
made his way out of the room once more. He returned,
cleaned and in his regular garments. Once more, he took
the empty seat at the table.
Speaker 6 (16:16):
Do you understand what I've done for you?
Speaker 1 (16:18):
The disciples didn't respond. They were still grappling with the
gesture of Jesus' servanthood.
Speaker 6 (16:25):
You call me teacher and lord, and you are right
to do so, for that is what I am. And
as your lord and teacher, I have washed your feet.
As my disciples, you should wash one another's feet. Everything
I have done tonight I have done as an example
for you what you have seen me do. As your master,
(16:49):
I exhort you to do as well, for no servant
is greater than his master, nor as a servant greater
than the one who sent him. Wherever you go, do
what I have taught you to do, and you.
Speaker 5 (17:03):
Will be blessed.
Speaker 1 (17:04):
Once again, Jesus was radically upending their understanding of him
and his kingdom. The Master had become the servant they
were to follow in his example of humility. The world
knew they needed a messiah, but the ways they would
(17:26):
be blessed by him were unimaginable. He would take their
own filth upon himself so that they could be made clean.
Speaker 8 (17:44):
Imagine the scene. It's the night before Jesus would be crucified.
He's gathered with his disciples for what would be their
final meal together. The air is thick with tension and
unspoken worries. Jesus knew what was about to happen. He
knew that his hour had come, that he was about
to leave this world and return to the Father. But
instead of focusing on his own impending suffering, Jesus's thoughts
(18:08):
were on his disciples. The Bible tells Us, having loved
his own who were in the world, he loved them
to the end. John chapter thirteen, verse one. In the
middle of this meal, Jesus does something unexpected. He gets up,
takes off his outer garments, wraps a towel around his waist,
and begins to wash the disciples feet. This wasn't just
(18:29):
any task, It was the job of the lowest servant.
Speaker 5 (18:32):
In the household.
Speaker 8 (18:33):
In those days, people wore sandals and walked on dusty roads,
so foot washing was unnecessary but lowly task. You can
almost see the disciples puzzled. Looks Peter, who often speaks
up first, even objects, Lord, are you washing my feet?
John chapter thirteen, verse six. Jesus replies, what I am doing.
(18:55):
You do not understand now, but you will know after
this John thirteen, verse seven. Peter, still not getting it,
insists you shall never wash my feet. But Jesus, ever patient, says,
if I do not wash you, you have no part
with me. John chapter thirteen, verse eight. Now let's pause
(19:16):
and think about the symbolism. Here, Jesus is washing their
feet with a towel, and that towel is getting dirty.
The felt from their feet is transferred onto the towel.
This is a vivid picture of what Jesus would do
on the cross. He didn't just wash away dirt. He
took on our dirtiness, our sin, our shame, our guilt.
(19:38):
Just as that towel became dirty, Jesus bore our sins
in his body on the cross. He wore our dirtiness
so that we could be made clean. The act of
washing feet wasn't just about physical cleanliness, It was about
spiritual cleansing. It was a foreshadowing of the ultimate act
of service that Jesus would perform on the cross. He
(20:00):
didn't come to be served, but to serve and to
give his life as a ransom for many. Mark chapter ten,
verse forty five. After washing their feed, Jesus explains the lesson.
He says, you call me teacher and Lord, and you say, well, for.
Speaker 5 (20:15):
So I am.
Speaker 8 (20:17):
If I, then your lord and teacher have washed your feet,
you also ought to wash one another's feet. John chapter thirteen,
Verses thirteen and fourteen. Jesus isn't just telling them to
start a foot washing ministry, though that's a beautiful practice
in itself. He's teaching them and us that true greatness
in his kingdom is found in serving others. Jesus set
(20:40):
the bar for humility and service incredibly high. If the
Lord of all creation is willing to wash feet, what
does that say about how we should treat one another.
If the King of kings didn't consider any task too lowly,
the no task is beneath us. This act of foot
washing is a perfect example of the three loves we
(21:01):
talked about last time, love God, love one another, and
love on mission. Love God. Jesus's actions were rooted in
his love.
Speaker 5 (21:11):
For the Father.
Speaker 8 (21:12):
He knew who he was, where he came from, and
where he was going John Chapter thirteen, verse three. His
service flowed out of his secure relationship with the Father.
When we love God, we naturally express that love in
humble service love one another. Jesus didn't just talk about love,
he showed it. He loved his disciples to the end,
(21:36):
and he demonstrated that love by washing their feet. We
are called to do the same, to serve one another
in love, even when it's uncomfortable, even when it's messy.
Love on mission. Jesus's mission was to serve and to save.
By washing his disciples feet, he showed them the kind
of selfless love that would characterize their mission to the world.
(21:58):
As we go out on mission, were called to serve others,
to get our hands dirty, just as Jesus did. So
what does this mean for us today? It's simple, go
and do likewise. Serve one another with humility, don't be
afraid to get your hands dirty, to step into the
messiness of life, and to show the love of Christ.
(22:19):
In practical ways. Whether it's through a kind word, a
helping hand, or a listening ear, we have countless opportunities
to wash one another's feet. Let's remember that Jesus wore
our dirtiness on the cross so that we could be clean.
Let's follow his example, serving one another with the same
love and humility that he showed us. Because when we do,
(22:44):
we're not just washing feet. We're reflecting the heart of
Jesus to a world that desperately needs him.
Speaker 7 (23:00):
Yeah.
Host
Zak Shellabarger
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