Notes on Hope Devotional

Willing to Receive

John 13:5 NIV
After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

During Lent, part of my daily readings has been in preparation for Easter. Reading the Gospel accounts, each writer brings events to life in the days that lead up to the crucifixion. This verse in John can easily go unnoticed amidst all the other miracles, encounters, and teachings Jesus did. Yet, there is something so profoundly powerful in the act of pouring water into a tub to wash someone’s feet.

A few years ago, I attended a Good Friday service at my church. The sanctuary was dimly lit with candles while music played softly. Once I was seated, I could see the plastic tubs on the floor with a towel nearby. Scripture was read describing the scene with Jesus washing the disciples’ feet. Then my pastor invited us to come to have our feet washed. My first thought was uncertainty. My feet probably smell. My skin is rough. I have ugly toes. Letting those thoughts pass, I stood up and walked to the chair, sat down, and placed my feet in the tub. A lovely young woman I know welcomed me with a smile as she gently lifted one foot up and let the water spill over my foot, then the other.

I began to weep. It was completely humbling to receive such tenderness while feeling so vulnerable. Maybe that’s why Peter said no to Jesus in verse 8: “You shall never wash my feet.”

As the young woman dried my feet, I was still crying. When she was finished, I stood up to thank her, and we hugged.

As I walked back to my seat, I sensed I had just received a gift.

I didn’t do anything to deserve it, earn it, or even feel worthy of it.

For those of us who have a hard time receiving, because we are more comfortable in the giving role, it was uniquely awkward, yet refreshingly affirming. The entire experience was exquisitely humbling.

As you go into Holy Week next week, I pray you can see the depth of love poured out for you and the beauty in the humility of Jesus as He went to the cross.

Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for demonstrating the act of washing the disciples’ feet. Thank You for a symbol of such love. Help us receive all You have given us as we enter Holy Week.
In Jesus Name,
Amen