Teaching the DisciplesIn following the life of Jesus during what we call Passion Week, we move now from the temple courts in Jerusalem to the upper room in Bethany. From the Gospel accounts, the place and time for the disciples and Jesus to observe the Passover was prearranged by Jesus.
While all of the Gospels give an account of the Passover, or feast of unleavened bread, only John gives an account of Jesus washing the disciples feet. John also gives an extended account of the teachings Jesus gave to these men at this event. There were lessons to be learned just Jesus' example of washing his disciples' feet -- to follow Him meant servitude rather than demanding service, learning humility by performing the duty of a servant, and learning to find meaning and blessing in putting oneself in such a position. Other lessons Jesus taught here include: 1) as His followers they would be vulnerable in facing possible enemies - such as Peter was; 2) they were not to fear but take courage in the days ahead -- times would be difficult; 3) Jesus was going to go away but the Holy Spirit would come to be their teacher and guide; 4) the world would hate them, as it hated Him; 5) they would soon experience deep sorrow, but would later be filled with joy; 6) they were to seek to live in unity and harmony with one another. The prayer of Jesus recorded in John 17 must have been uttered in the presence of the disciples and therefore was a part of His teaching to them (John 17:1).
I wonder when I review these passages how well we (I) have learned these lessons. Do I understand my vulnerability when as I go about in my world? Am I sometimes fearful when I face uncertain days ahead? Do I allow the Holy Spirit to teach, lead, and comfort me day by day? Does my life always radiate the joy of the Lord? Am I in unity with my fellow believers, those with whom I worship and fellowship? These are sobering questions, and as I approach the latter days of this week, I want to work on these, and other issues in my life. Will you journey with me?
Pilgrim on the way
P.S. Could this be a modern day version of the above painting?
While all of the Gospels give an account of the Passover, or feast of unleavened bread, only John gives an account of Jesus washing the disciples feet. John also gives an extended account of the teachings Jesus gave to these men at this event. There were lessons to be learned just Jesus' example of washing his disciples' feet -- to follow Him meant servitude rather than demanding service, learning humility by performing the duty of a servant, and learning to find meaning and blessing in putting oneself in such a position. Other lessons Jesus taught here include: 1) as His followers they would be vulnerable in facing possible enemies - such as Peter was; 2) they were not to fear but take courage in the days ahead -- times would be difficult; 3) Jesus was going to go away but the Holy Spirit would come to be their teacher and guide; 4) the world would hate them, as it hated Him; 5) they would soon experience deep sorrow, but would later be filled with joy; 6) they were to seek to live in unity and harmony with one another. The prayer of Jesus recorded in John 17 must have been uttered in the presence of the disciples and therefore was a part of His teaching to them (John 17:1).
I wonder when I review these passages how well we (I) have learned these lessons. Do I understand my vulnerability when as I go about in my world? Am I sometimes fearful when I face uncertain days ahead? Do I allow the Holy Spirit to teach, lead, and comfort me day by day? Does my life always radiate the joy of the Lord? Am I in unity with my fellow believers, those with whom I worship and fellowship? These are sobering questions, and as I approach the latter days of this week, I want to work on these, and other issues in my life. Will you journey with me?
Pilgrim on the way
P.S. Could this be a modern day version of the above painting?
1 comment:
I remember the footwashing services we had at PV. In many ways, I wish we would do that in our fellowship today. The meaning would be profound and the symbolism would be strikingly effective.
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