After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord—and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.
John 13:12-17

Contained in the Gospel According to John are a series of “I AM” statements. In several places, Jesus gives good news to people by claiming that what they need – He is.

We all need someone to teach us. We are taught how to tie our shoes. We learn manners from our parents. We are taught to learn to read and write and the opens up for us. We learn how to work and how to play, and life is good. Just take a minute and think about people who have taught you important lessons in life.

The disciples needed someone to teach them. And Jesus showed them how to love and serve one another. Jesus washed the feet of his twelve friends on the occasion of the Last Supper. And them after washing their feet He spoke to them. (This is a demonstration of the action/reflect mode of teaching.)

So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.

Jesus wanted His followers to be blessed in their lives. And, as their Teacher and Lord, He taught them that blessings come through service. That lesson never grows old.

Prayer

Help me Lord to follow your example as I seek to serve those whom you love. Let me experience the blessings that come as I follow you on the path of discipleship and service. Amen.