Before Jesus laid down His life, He picked up a towel.
He laid down His rights to be important,
honored or taken care of
and instead of being served,
He served.
John 13:5 records the moment: “After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” (NIV)
Here we see the Prince of Eternity wrap a towel
around His waist and take the position
of the lowest servant in the house.
This is the Son of God washing
the dirty feet of His friends.
This is a physical representation
of the spiritual cleansing
He was about to do on the cross.
This is the King of kings drying off the feet
of the would-be betrayer,
the future deny-er,
the not good enough follower,
the quiet doubter
and the brash hot-headed one.
Then He told them to follow His example.
He said that those who choose to follow
would set aside position,
become the lowest,
And meet basic needs of others with humble love.
My friend, when an opportunity presents itself to you this week to love someone
practically, lay aside your rights and pick up your towel.