Then he said, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You address me as ‘Teacher’ and ‘Master,’ and rightly so. That is what I am. So, if I, the Master and Teacher, washed your feet, you must now wash each other’s feet. John 13:12-13
Jesus has just finished washing the disciple’s feet. Much to their surprise, He, the Master, had acted as a servant. He had just stated very clearly that leaders lead by example, by demonstrating what obedience looks like in real-life situations. He showed them leaders are to be humble and serve their followers. Followers are to follow and do what their leaders do.
Some of us are very familiar with this scripture. In our discipleship groups we asked what we have seen Jesus do in our lives in the last week? Today begs a different question. What have I done to be Jesus to someone this week? How have I loved with Jesus love this week? Whom have I served like Jesus served? And the list goes on….. Jesus demonstrated what He wanted His disciples to DO! He wasn’t so concerned about what they knew, but what they did! He was saying, if you believe me, watch what I do and imitate me.
Knowing is important, but doing represents understanding. Do I just know the Word, or do I apply action to my understanding? Does my joy come from digging deep into cultural context, descriptive nuances, and word meanings, all of which help me understand scripture and are exciting, or from actually applying this understanding to my lifestyle and interactions on a daily basis? Jesus opens our eyes so He can use our hands and feet for His glory.
Jesus, thank You for the opportunity to discover new truths each day as we study Your Word. You created a desire within us to know You and show those around us how much You love and care for them. Now, Father God, help us to humbly practice WWJD (What Would Jesus DO), today.
Journey with Joyce 