Read
Reflect
Have you ever been shown love when you felt so undeserving? Or perhaps the opposite, YOU helped someone in need that you felt really didn't deserve it?
In John 13 we witness Jesus' humble himself and serve His disciples. Jesus is the Son of God, yet he humbles Himself as a servant would and he washes His disciples' feet. This is the perfect example of servanthood.
However, what strikes me the most about this passage is the ultimate example of grace that Jesus shows. All the disciples are gathered at the final supper. Jesus washes the feet of both the disciples that love Him, but also the feet of those who would betray Him. Judas had already sold the life of His Lord for financial gain, yet Jesus still extends grace and forgiveness to Judas by washing His feet.
I don't know about you, but I think most of us would more likely show grace towards someone who loves us, but love someone who betrays us?! It just doesn't seem fair. How can this traitor be shown the same love as the other disciples?
Could this same love be extended to us? Was Jesus' death on the cross for all of us? Even if we're not sure we deserve it or fully believe it?
Respond
Belong – Because you can belong before you believe.
No matter what you've done, or what you believe, Jesus invites you to know Him. Will you accept His gift of grace?
Believe – Because those who belong often start to believe.
How has accepting God's grace through Jesus changed the way you show love to others?
Become – Because everyone who believes can become someone new.
Who in your life can you show grace to? Who can you serve, perhaps even if they are undeserving?
Jesus, thank you that even though I am imperfect and doubt You at times, your grace is for me. Please help me to serve others and forgive others as you have forgiven me and served me by laying down your life on the cross. Amen.
– by Andrew Walker
