May 23

John 13

The only way that Jesus was going to depart from this world was through the cross and He lived His entire life in anticipation of this "hour that had come".  He knew that within the next 24 hours He would be hanging on a cross.   That was His Father's plan.  It was the plan of redemption from the beginning set way back in the Garden of Eden. Jesus loved His disciples, and He loved His own who were in the world. He was now about to show the world the full extent of that love. Keep in mind that nothing Jesus ever did was without the intention of expanding our minds and getting us to see the parallels of His life on earth and heaven. So what does He do?  He unfolds a parable as He washes His disciples feet.  Just as Jesus rose from the comfort of a reclined position at the supper, He rose from His throne in heaven, a place of rest and comfort.  Just as He laid aside His garments, taking off His covering, He laid aside His glory when He left heaven.  He then took a towel and girded Himself, ready to to serve. Leaving His throne, He took the form of a servant, He came to earth ready to work. Just as He poured water into a basin, He poured out His blood for us. When He was all done washing His disciples feet, He sat down again, just as He sat at the right hand of the Father when His work here was finished.  His message and actions are clear.  Love one another, serve one another out of love. "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you" (v.15).  The love of Jesus is so great.  He loved us to the end of His earthly life and continues to love us as He sits and intercedes at the right hand of The Father. This lesson is so counter cultural but so vital in a world where anger and tension are at a peak.  I pray the world knows we are Christians by our love.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7E7lARwUYw

Blessings,

Randi