By Darrel Auvenshine
“…He loved them to the end.” (v.1b) – John 13:1-17
Perhaps one of the clearest displays of intimacy between God and His followers is found in John 13 when Jesus washes the feet of His disciples. An often overlooked portion of this passage gives insight to the depth of love with which Jesus cared for those closest to Him on earth. When Jesus “knew that the time had come that He would depart out of this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.” In verses 4 and 5 we see a most beautiful revelation of Jesus. He “got up from supper, and laid aside His garments; and taking the towel, He girded Himself.” Here we see Jesus becoming vulnerable before His own and taking the position of servant.” Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.”
All of this was just too much for Simon Peter. He refused that Jesus should wash his feet, but Jesus insisted: “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.” At that moment Peter was all in. His response says it all: “Lord, then wash not only my feet, but also my hands and my head.” Wash all of me. The revelation of Christ to Peter was overwhelming and Peter responded with expectancy and hope. He could not be satisfied with only part, he wanted all.
When you read, “He loved them to the end,” what is your response?
Does the intimacy seen in this passage make you uncomfortable?
In light of the cleanses power of the shed blood of Jesus, would you say with Peter, “wash all of me” ?