Bible Chapter: John 13

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    There is so much in this chapter.  It was Jesus’ last night on earth before the arrest and crucifixion. Jesus ate the last supper with the disciples.  We see some extremely important lessons.
    At that time, roads were very dusty.  People wore sandals and everywhere they went their feet got dirty.  It was considered good manners to offer foot washing to guests when they arrived.  But, to do this was deemed to be a lowly job done only by servants.  Jesus had been working on the disciples for a long time to teach them about the importance of being a servant.  They weren’t getting it.  The passion for greatness plagued them, even to this last supper.  Jesus powerfully showed them the importance of serving others by washing their feet.  Peter objected, considering it below Jesus’ dignity.  Jesus clearly taught that to reject this act of service was rejecting HIM.  It appears through church history in the book of Acts that they got the message and overcame their desires for human greatness and became willing servants.
    Along with the powerful messages of service and love, this chapter includes the sad story of Judas’ betrayal of Jesus.  Satan entered Judas and he went out and sold Jesus for money.  This only happened because Judas was complicit with the scheme.  He was willing to let the powers of evil take over.  The love of money was more powerful than his love for Jesus.
    This chapter also includes one of the foundational teachings of the Christian life.  Verses 34-35 give one of the most important commandments.  I wonder how many Christians know that Jesus COMMANDED that we love one another.  This is the sign of the genuineness of our Christianity, that we love one another.  It is the distinguishing mark of believers.  It is a sacrificial love that is primarily concerned with the welfare of others.  Love is outward.  Love is giving.  Love looks for the needs of others and seeks ways to do something about them.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Serving others.  This is a main theme of the ending of the last supper.  Jesus demonstrated this in a culturally powerful way.  No average person of that day would stand in line to be the one to wash the feet of others.  That was always considered below their dignity.  Jesus illustrated that no honest work is below a person’s dignity.  While we are not all called to do everything, and some have abilities to do certain tasks, there is nothing that a Christian should consider below their “high” status in life.  This is the battle the disciples faced.  I must be willing to serve where called.
    And, I must do it all in a loving manner.  I think that verses 34-35 are potent.  I wonder the impact if they were really practiced across the whole scope of Christianity.  I need to always be looking for ways to apply this commandment.  I find it interesting that we are commanded to love one another. That seems impossible, but since Jesus commanded us to do it, it must be possible.  This means that love is not simply some uncontrollable emotional response, but a decision we can make.  If I make the choice to love someone, I can express it and it will be genuine.  Understanding this principle would repair many broken relationships.

3.  How can I help someone?
    Continually look for ways to serve and love.  That sounds simple but it is not that easy.  I must make the conscientious choices regularly to do these things.  I must look for ways to serve and then do it.  I must keep in mind that nothing is below me and not get caught up with the struggle the early disciples had.