The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus. 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 His disciples feet,...John 13:2-5
I love this passage. It speaks volumes about the Christ I love. He knew His authority given Him by His Father. He knew where He had come from. He knew where He was to return. When I reflect on His way to the cross, His purpose for coming, His sacrificial death, it is difficult to sit and ponder so great a step toward such suffering.
Knowing where we have come from keeps us aware of what formed us to be who we are.
Knowing where we are going, our final destination, spurs us on toward that arrival. Suffering and joy and all that entails come with the journey.
Christ's examples are innumerable, but this one helps me realize that His love for His Father, His obedience and selfless ambition, were coupled with this knowledge.
Do I set my face toward my ultimate destination, my heavenly home? Do I let that fact overshadow all others? If so, I should be quite at home taking up the towel, starting my journey, "taking the very nature of a servant." My prayer is that I will fill my basin with living water and begin.
Beautiful.
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