John 13:1-17 “Serving Needs, Not Demands”

Even as His crucifixion approached, Jesus persisted in loving and teaching His disciples. What transpires here illustrates this truth. Jesus washed all the disciples feet, including Judas who would soon betray Him. He did so KNOWING where He came from and where He was going [to the Father via the cross]. When Jesus came to Peter, he objected declaring, “…’Never shall You wash my feet!’” (8c). Jesus told them they would not understand what He was doing until later, but it was essential He do this. Then Peter said wash my hands and head too. But Jesus responded saying if you have bathed it is only your feet that need to be washed to be clean. Jesus is teaching us to humble ourselves to serve others for their cleansing. We are not called to serve the demands of others. When we serve their need for cleansing, we will not be manipulated by their’ demands! We serve needs, not demands!