Devotion for Saturday 12/04/2025

John 13:6-9 (NKJV)

6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”

7 Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”

8 “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”

Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”

9 “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”

This portion of John’s gospel records Jesus taking on the role of a lowly servant, washing the disciples’ feet. Copious volumes have been written about the significance of this incident.

When Jesus began to wash the disciples' feet, He told them that they would not understand it (John 13:6–7). Despite assurances that understanding would come later, Peter stubbornly refused to allow his Master to act like a servant (John 13:8). In response, Jesus gave an ultimatum: let Me do this, or else have nothing to do with Me at all!

I like the quick response of Peter - he was literally saying, “If that is the case, give me more of it and give me all!”

We should have this attitude when we come to the things of the spirit. How often are we satisfied with a little revelation and insight of God? How often are we content with dipping our little toes in the immense grace of God?

For some, the Christian faith seems utterly ridiculous, as it is as simple as accepting the gift of eternal life through Jesus’ finished work on the cross. Like Peter’s initial reaction, this does not seem to make sense. The Master, the promised Messiah, would stoop so low to wash my feet? Unthinkable!

I think we need to hear again the voice of grace, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me”. The only right response to Jesus’ statement is “I accept!”. And as Peter said, “give me more and give me all!”. God always delights in his children who hunger for more of Him.

Make no mistake, our Lord and saviour did not only stoop to wash our feet, he did much more, he completely fulfilled all the ritual and legal requirements for our salvation!

If there is any other season to be reflective and thankful, this is the season to press in for more of God.

Have a blessed Saturday!