Re: Verse reading–John 13:1-17 (day six)
Peter meant to honor Jesus by saying, “You will never wash my feet!” Jesus knew that of course; he knew Peter’s intent, it’s just that he had everything backwards. Unless Jesus serves us, we are nothing, and we have nothing. He would tell them this much just two chapters later, “…apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) Peter would even write many years later, “whoever serves, do so with the strength that God supplies.” 1 Peter 4:11 So, even when we do serve others we are able to not by any merit or strength of our own but by God’s. Jesus is always the benefactor; he is always the giver.
What this means, is that our acts of service towards others are not repayment, as if we are trying to repay Jesus for what He has done, but they are an expression of our identity in Jesus, our new DNA. The outcome is clear, people declare “look, he must be Jesus’ disciple.” Paul said it like this, “I am crucified with Christ, therefore I no longer live, but Christ Jesus lives in me.”
Thank you for the reminder. Great point, “acts of service towards others are not repayment, as if we are trying to repay Jesus for what He has done, but they are an expression of our identity in Jesus, our new DNA.” This reminder helps reaffirm one of our Christian values and our identity with Jesus when we serve others. Together, we all can help shape a new DNA for our community and society!! Thanks for the blog.
Phuong Le Callaway, PHD, CA