John 13:3-5-"Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him."

This scene is from the Last Supper, on the night before his crucifixion. It is one of the most incredible stories about Jesus' life and ministry we find in scripture. Washing the feet of those visiting a home in that culture was designated for servants. It is not something that a Rabbi or Teacher would do for his followers. Yet, this is exactly what Jesus did.

Why? Jesus said in Matthew 20:28-"just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." What Jesus was doing in the upper room was demonstrating to the disciples and to us the purpose of Jesus' ministry. Jesus wanted the disciple to see and experinece first hand the reason he came to earth.

I have had the privilege of having my feet washed by one of my pastor's during one of our worship services. It was one of the most humbling and moving experiences in my life. I felt like Peter when he said, "No, you shall never wash my feet." (vs 8)  The feet is one of the dirtiest parts of the human body. They smell and are just nasty. The disciples feet were even worse. I wear shoes and socks. They wore sandals and walked on dirt roads all kinds of animal waste. Yet Jesus, took some water and a towel, bent down and washed their feet.

Jesus was demonstrating to them a powerful point. I have come to serve and you must go and do likewise. The ultimate act of serving is laying one's life down for others. In just a few short hours Jesus was going to serve in this way as well. 

So, what is the point of this story? What was Jesus saying to his disciples and to us today? John 13:15 is the answer. It says, "I (Jesus) have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." I heard my pastor in Arizona say, "You are never more like Christ than when you give and serve." How are we doing with our serving others? What can you do this week to show the love of Christ by serving someone?

Easter is two weeks from today. It is the time we celebrate Christ's death and resurrection. Start planning today on how you are going to demostrate this powerful story to those in your life. Serving other will not only change their life but yours as well.

Prayer: Dear Lord, you showed us what it really means to follow you. You demostrated your love for us in that while we were still sinners you died for us. (Romans 5:8). Help us do the same thing to those we come in contact with this Easter season. You became a servant to extend God's grace to us. Give us the power, wisdom and strength to do the same. In Jesus Name, Amen!