Let’s Read! 

Today we look at the time Jesus washed his disciples’ feet. You can read the whole passage in your Bible John 13: 1-7, 31-35

Judas has left the supper scene to set the wheels in motion for Jesus’ arrest. Jesus, alone with the remaining disciples, left the table,

 ‘and after that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet to get some water.’ John 13: 5 (NIV). 

Having done so, he then offers a new command, 

‘As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know you are my disciples, if you love one another’. John 13 34-35 (NIV)

Let’s Think!

In biblical times, feet washing was common practice. People walked everywhere, for long distances, in sandals, on dusty roads. When they arrived at someone’s house their feet will have been weary and dirty. Hosts often offered to wash their guests’ feet when they arrived at the house. I wonder if Jesus wanted to show his disciples what it means to love and serve others. What do you think?

Let’s Talk!

Talk to your family or friends about someone you consider a hero. What qualities do they have that you admire? What would you do if you met your hero?

Perhaps you wouldn’t expect them to start washing your feet! Or doing anything for you, for that matter. Peter, one of the disciples present, questions Jesus’ actions when he says, ‘Lord, are you going to wash my feet?’ John 13:6.

Why do you think Peter did not want Jesus to wash his feet?

Why did Jesus insist on washing the disciples’ feet?

Jesus then asks the disciples to love one another as he has loved us. Jesus was talking to the disciples there at the time, but this is a commandment for all Christians today. How can we show Jesus’ love and our love for one another and be disciples in our everyday lives?

Let’s Do! 

Take some time today to do something to help someone else. You might want to do the dishes after a mealtime or help a sibling with some home-school activity. Spend time thinking about what you love most about the person for whom you are doing the chore. Share your thoughts with them once you have finished the task.

Let’s pray!

Dear Lord,

Thank you for sending Jesus to be an example for how we should lead our lives. Help us to love and serve others as Jesus loved and served us, so that as we love others, we share your love and spread your word. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen