Imagine you’re at school, and your best friend drops their lunch all over the floor. Without thinking twice, you help them clean up the mess. This act of kindness and service is just a simple example of what Jesus did for His disciples, and it teaches us a valuable lesson about humility and love.
The Story of Jesus Washing the Feet of the Disciples
In the Bible, we read about an incredible act of service: a foot wash. This wasn’t about Jesus having His feet washed, but rather Him washing His disciples’ feet. In John 13:13-14 (NLT), Jesus says, “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet.” This act was Jesus showing His followers how to serve one another with love and humility.
Why is the Foot Wash by Jesus so Important?
The foot wash symbolizes how the disciples should humble themselves while dignifying and valuing others. Jesus, who was their Master and Lord, took on the role of a servant. It is important to realise the extent of what is happening at this moment: God willingly places Himself in an extreme position of humility and servitude.
In Jewish culture, foot washing was often done for hygiene, as people wore sandals, and their feet would get very dirty. Foot washing also played a role in social, hospitality, and religious ceremonies. The act’s significance lies in its humility, given the dirty nature of feet and the humble position required to wash someone else’s feet. Jesus wanted to cleanse the disciple’s hearts from negative feelings like jealousy and pride, preparing them for a deeper relationship with Him. In this humble act, Jesus taught that true greatness lies in serving others. Galatians 5:13 (NLT) says, “For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.” Jesus’ foot wash example at the Last Supper, a significant event where He shared a meal with His disciples before His crucifixion, is a perfect example of serving one another in love.
What Can We Learn from Jesus’ example?
By washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus showed that we should be willing to serve others, no matter who they are. This act also reminds us of Jesus’ sacrificial love for us. When we participate in communion and wash each other’s feet, we are not only reminded of His example, but also encouraged to follow it, to love and serve one another as He did.
Understanding the story of Jesus undertaking a footwash for the disciples can deepen our faith and personal understanding of God. By studying the Bible, we can learn more about these powerful messages and how to live according to God’s will. John 13:14-15 (NLT) says, “And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.“ These verses encourage us to follow Jesus’ example of service and love.
Join Us on This Journey
If you want to learn more about communion foot washing and other Bible stories, the Bunbury Seventh-day Adventist Church offers free in-person and online Bible studies. These studies are a great way to explore the Bible, understand its teachings, and grow spiritually. By studying the Bible, you can discover the amazing stories and messages that God has for you.
We invite you to join us in this spiritual journey and to participate in communion with our community. Whether you’re a lifelong believer or just curious about the Christian faith, you can join our church family. Our church regularly organises communion services where we practice foot washing, providing a space for us to follow Jesus’ example of service and love.
Remember, the footwash ceremony as part of the Lord’s Supper is a beautiful and profound moment that has the power to transform us, bringing us closer to God and to each other. Don’t miss out on this special experience—take the first step today by reaching out to our church community.
