I have a picture in my office. The picture shows Jesus washing the feet of a disciple. The picture, of course, is based on the story related in John’s gospel (John 13) of Jesus taking a servant’s role and washing the feet of the disciples. There are several lessons to be derived from this event – the one Jesus specifically stated was for the disciples to learn and practice the attitude of a servant. There is also another lesson taught in this story that should be an encouragement to any Christian who occasionally stumbles; it was at least to me.
Peter protested. Jesus explained that Peter did not yet understand, but would later. Peter then relented with the request for Jesus to wash his hands and head also. Jesus indicated that Peter was already clean, except for his feet. His feet were the only things that needed cleaning. What did Jesus mean when He said Peter was already clean except for his feet? Why was Jesus cleaning the feet?
Peter, and the others, apparently had taken their baths prior to the Passover meal. They were clean. They did wear sandals however, and the dusty or muddy roads and paths on which they walked would get their feet dirty. Jesus was washing their feet to remove the dirt on their feet that came as a result of walking on the roads and paths. So, what possible application does that have for me (and you)? Jesus was referencing a cleansing of the spirit, and demonstrated the cleansing by washing their feet.
There are several scriptures that explain we are made clean, cleansed, washed, by the offering of Jesus Christ and the shedding of His blood. We are washed, not by our own efforts, but by God’s mercy through Jesus Christ. It is the sacrifice of Jesus Christ that purifies us from all sin. Jesus Himself expiated (washed off) our sins. We are clean because He washed us. But, we walk around in this world. We are sometimes influenced by the thoughts, practices, and culture around us. We sometimes sin in thought and sometimes in deed. And then, Jesus takes the servant’s garb and water bucket again, and washes our feet. We already had our bath; we are clean. He just cleans away the little “rudiments” of sin that sometimes cling to our feet. Do not protest as did Peter, just appreciate the fact that He still washes the dirt off. He still cleanses and purges.
I was meditating this morning, and then remembered attitudes and thoughts I had last night and yesterday. I remembered some things I heard. While seeking forgiveness and cleansing, what came to mind were the scriptures that God is faithful to forgive and cleanse us from all sin. I could picture Jesus washing off the attitudes, thoughts, and ideas that had come to my mind. As I cried out to be purged, to be cleansed, I was reminded that I am clean. I did as Peter and requested that He wash my hands and head also. He reminded me as He did Peter, that it was just my feet that needed washing. I am clean. Just a little something was splashed up on and stuck to my feet, but He washed them. When I need it again, He will again wash my feet.
Break the Bread 