Washing the feet: an Example of Humility and Service

Holy Thursday Holy Communion

Gospel John 13:1–15

The Passover feast was near, and Jesus knew that his hour had come for him to depart from this world to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. When they were at supper, the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him. Jesus, knowing that the Father had given him all power, and that he had come from God and was going to him, got up from supper, took off his outer garments, and girded himself with a towel. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to dry them with the towel that was around him.

When Jesus came to Simon Peter, he said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” Jesus answered, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will understand later.” Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet!” Jesus answered, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not only wash my feet, but also my hands and my head.” Jesus answered, “He who has bathed does not need to wash, but is clean. And you are clean, but not all of you.” For Jesus knew who would betray him, so he said that they were not all clean. After Jesus had washed their feet, he put on his outer garments and sat down again to eat. He said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.” (John 13:1–15, second edition)

The Washing of Feet: Background and Context

Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples is full of meaning, emphasizing the principles of humility and service. In particular, the account of the washing of feet in the Gospel of John provides us with valuable insight into what humility really means. This article examines this significant event and its implications for us as Christians today.

Jesus’ decision to wash his disciples’ feet is historically and culturally significant. In first-century Jewish society, where shoes often had dust and dirt under them, washing feet before meals was a common practice. This was not just a practical matter; it was also a social ritual that brought people closer together. When Jesus began to wash the feet of his disciples, he did something that would not have been expected of a master. Such an act was associated with slave labor, and so Peter’s reaction to forbid it was understandable. Peter felt that a master should not be doing such menial work. However, Jesus’ response reveals a profound lesson: “If I do not wash you, you have no part with me.” Here Jesus emphasizes that the true service that He represents depends not on social status but on the attitude of the heart.

Peter’s Denial and Jesus’ Opposition

Peter was known for his zeal and strong feelings. His denial was motivated by a desire to protect Jesus, but it also revealed a lack of trust in the teacher. Jesus’ response was not just a command; it was a profound lesson in humility. When we think about Jesus’ words, we can see that He is calling us to serve one another, even if it means stepping outside our comfort zone. It is significant that Jesus chose to do what no one else wanted to do. The lesson is simple but powerful: humility and service are important values in the kingdom of God that can transform human relationships.

A Parable of Humility

The washing of feet serves as a metaphor for the humility that Jesus taught. He encourages his disciples to understand that the great in the kingdom of God is the one who serves others. In the Gospel of Mark (10:43–44), “Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant.” Leadership, then, does not mean power, but the ability to serve. Humility is not underestimating oneself, but an attitude of heart that is ready to help others. Jesus reminds us that true greatness is found in the desire to serve. This is encouraging information for each of us: service should not be shameful, but rather a path to true meaning.

The Meaning of Communion

The Last Supper, when Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples, is deeply connected to the washing of feet. When we participate in Communion, we remember Jesus’ example of love and service. Communion is a moment when we are strengthened by God’s grace. In fact, we were told that in the first years of the Communion service, food was distributed to the poor. This tradition reminds us that service also reaches to the core of spiritual life. Communion also emphasizes the importance of community. When we gather together, we recognize ourselves as part of a larger family – the family of God. This connects us to each other and strengthens the bonds of community, where humility and service draw a stronger connection.

Service to Others

As Christians, we are called to follow Jesus’ example in our daily lives. This means actively seeking out opportunities to help our neighbors and serve them wholeheartedly. As research shows, the majority of people feel better about themselves and their lives when they serve others. Every time we see someone in need, we have an opportunity to be more like Jesus.

Service can be small acts, such as a kind word or a helping hand, or larger commitments, such as volunteering or community service. This doesn’t require much visibility; changes often happen quietly as we serve one another.

The Community Dimension of Communion

Communion is not just a personal experience; it shapes our community’s identity. When we gather together to celebrate Communion, we build both spiritual and social connection. This connection extends beyond our own congregation; it encompasses the entire world, which is God’s family. Jesus’ example reminds us that a community where people serve one another is an important part of God’s plan. Humility and service create a sense of belonging that helps us understand one another more deeply.

Face challenges with humility

In life, we face challenges that can test humility and service. We may be treated unfairly, or there may be situations in which it is difficult to forgive. This is where Jesus’ example comes into play. Jesus’ Last Supper is a reminder that humility is not easy; it requires strength and courage. When we choose to serve in difficult times, we show that we belong to God’s kingdom and open our hearts to his mercy.

Summary and Challenge

Jesus’ washing of his feet and the Lord’s Supper offer us important lessons about humility and service. It is important to remember that service is not just an act; it is an expression of love that leads us toward true greatness. The challenge for us is to move forward as faithful followers of Jesus. This means that we actively participate in a society where love and humility are at the center. Let us let our hearts and hands work for one another, for in this way we live according to Jesus’ teachings.

Together, we believe that we can fulfill God’s will in different areas of our lives, humbly serving one another and facing life’s challenges with love and understanding.

Today’s world often glorifies selfish victories and success, but in the kingdom of God, true value lies in love and service. Jesus’ example guides us to live differently, to serve one another sincerely, and to believe that humility leads us to true meaning.