Reflect
As I go on a walk in the neighbourhood, I see an elderly man scraping the ice tracks from his car on his drive. I ask if I can help him. A friendly, but a firm NO, sends me on my way.
Think about Peter in today's scene. Washing feet was servant or slave work. A firm NO from Peter triggers Jesus’ explanation. I stumble over the fact, that serving takes humility from both parties: the giver and receiver. The cleansing of our sins for free - from the Almighty God - is still a stumbling block today for many people’s pride (“I can do it myself!”). But, if Jesus doesn’t cleanse us, we have no part with Him (v.8).
Read Ezekiel 36:25 & 26. Once God has given us a new heart, our ongoing check of confessing our sins is enough to be clean.
Peter suggests, “Wash my hand and head.” Have you ever wondered why Jesus washed the feet only? Yes, in many cultures they are viewed as low and unclean. I like to think: feet are the one body part we need to go where there are people living not under God's rule. To go and take the message of salvation to a needy world.
Apply
Jesus set the example to take his Good News everywhere with humble servant leadership. Become a leader in word AND action with humility of heart!!
Annette Fraszer
Pray
- Pray through the prayer section in our program
- Pray for Karen Alksne, our Congregational Life Ministry Associate
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family
Pray for all our small group leaders. Pray for our Hospitality Coordinator, Irene Dickau