A Day-by-day devotional

April 6, 2023

Wash each other’s feet

Chronological One Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 5-7

Scripture of the Day: John 13:2–17

At the time of Jesus, people wore sandals and walked for miles to get to one’s destination. This, they did in sandy, dusty roads. The feet get dirty quite easily. Therefore, in the home, people go barefoot. They leave their dusty sandals outside and wash their feet as they enter the house. This is not only done in one’s own home. When you visit someone else’s house, the host offers a basin with water so you can wash your feet before entering.

Jesus did more than just offer a basin of water. He washed his disciples’ feet. This is more than a custom. It is an act of humble service. The Son of God shows His followers that love-driven service thinks less of self and more of others. This is something we need to do as well, for each other – humble acts of servitude.

Moreover, when Jesus began to wash Peter’s feet, the latter said that his master should never wash his feet. But when Jesus explained that unless he allows this, he will never have a part in Him. Peter, wanting to always be there where his master is, asked that his whole body be washed clean too. We should notice however that Jesus said that as His disciples, they are clean. It is only their feet, which constantly gets dusty due to walking, that needs cleansing.

Whoever is in Christ is cleansed by His blood. Nonetheless, we still continue to sin. For that, we need constant cleansing. By asking for forgiveness in our daily shortcomings, our Lord is faithful and just to forgive us (1 John 1:9). When we repent of our sins, the Living Water cleanses us.

In the same way that Christ constantly forgives us, we also ought to forgive one another.

Reflection: In what ways do you take part in washing the feet of others?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for constantly cleansing me. Thank you for showing me a love that thinks more of others and less of self. Enable me to love others in the same way. Amen.