8 “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”
Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” John 13
Some things were non-negotiable with the Lord especially as He was nearing the time of His departure and return to the Father. As usual, Peter was the one who felt he couldn’t allow Jesus to wash his feet and tried to dissuade Him from performing such a lowly task before others. Peter’s motives were sincere but Jesus insisted that if Peter wanted to be counted with Him he must accept the public washing of his feet. Peter often had his own opinions, but Jesus worked with him to bring him along God’s path for his life. He does the same with many of us today.
3 He said, “If I have found Favour in your eyes, my lord (or Lord), do not pass your servant by. 4 Let a little water be brought, and then you may all wash your feet and rest under this tree. Genesis 18
The first place where the washing of feet is mentioned in the Bible, was when the Lord came down Himself to judge all that was happening in Sodom and Gomorrah. It was also when Abraham and Sarah received the promise of a miracle son, Isaac. Genesis 18:10, 14 Death was coming to the sinful, despite Abraham’s intercession and LIFE BY A MIRACLE BIRTH.
32 So the man went to the house, and the camels were unloaded. Straw and fodder were brought for the camels, and water for him and his men to wash their feet. 33 Then food was set before him, but he said, “I will not eat until I have told you what I have to say.” Genesis 24
Another very important occurrence was the meeting of Abraham’s chief servant (symbolic of the Holy Spirit) with Rebekah, when seeking a wife for Isaac. Again the provision of precious water for the travellers to wash their feet.
9 No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, 10 and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds. 1 Timothy 5
The New Testament Church had to care for the needs of their widows, but Paul laid down certain conditions, no doubt very politically incorrect by present day standards. But the widows did receive help when they had no other support.
14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them (THE BLESSING IS IN THE DOING) John 13
Jesus laid down the example while still with His own disciples and He urged them and us to follow His example. Nothing given for Him is ever wasted and He is no man’s debtor.
God bless and keep you today.
(It’s a very beautiful day in N.Ireland today, a true blessing!)