In John 13:2-11, we see a powerful moment when Jesus washes His disciples’ feet. This act shows us the heart of Christ’s mission: to serve others with humility. Jesus, knowing His hour was near, chose to demonstrate love in a simple yet profound way. John 13:5 (ESV) says, “Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” With this action, Jesus gave His disciples—and us—a clear instruction about how we should live.
The key phrase here is “living like Christ.” When we look at this passage, we are reminded that striving to live like Christ means choosing humility and service over pride and self-interest.
Humility: The Foundation of Christian Living
Jesus, the Son of God, humbly served His disciples, even though He was their Lord. This act teaches us that living like Christ begins with humility. In a world that pushes self-promotion and pride, Jesus asks us to lower ourselves for the sake of others. Humility isn’t weakness—it’s strength under control. It means understanding our worth in Christ and choosing to lift others up rather than seeking our own glory.
When we reflect on our lives, do we choose humility, or do we focus on getting ahead? Living like Christ involves taking a step back, serving in ways that may seem small but make a significant impact on others. It’s about being ready to get “our hands dirty,” much like Jesus did when He washed the disciples’ feet.
Service: Following Jesus’ Example
Jesus didn’t just tell His disciples to serve—He showed them how. In John 13:14 (ESV), He says, “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” This call to action was a directive for every believer. We aren’t just meant to observe Christ’s life; we are meant to follow it.
When we serve others, we show the world what Jesus’ love looks like in action. Whether it’s caring for a friend in need, volunteering in our communities, or simply lending a listening ear, our service reflects Christ. Service is at the heart of living like Christ because it requires us to think beyond ourselves and focus on meeting the needs of others.
We may not always feel like serving, especially when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable. But the Bible reminds us that in those moments, we are closest to reflecting the heart of Jesus.
Cleansing: Accepting Jesus’ Work in Our Lives
In John 13:8-9, Peter initially refuses to let Jesus wash his feet, feeling unworthy of such an act. But Jesus tells him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me” (John 13:8, ESV). Here, we see a picture of spiritual cleansing. Peter had to let Jesus serve him, just as we must accept Jesus’ work on the cross for our salvation.
We cannot live like Christ without first being cleansed by Him. It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to earn God’s favor through our own actions. However, Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet reminds us that we need His grace daily. Our striving must come from a place of humility, where we acknowledge our need for Christ’s cleansing and guidance in everything we do.
Living Like Christ Every Day
As we strive to live like Christ, we must remember that it’s a daily commitment. Jesus didn’t just wash the feet of those who appreciated Him—He washed the feet of all His disciples, even Judas, who would soon betray Him. This shows us that we are called to serve everyone, even those who may not reciprocate our kindness or seem undeserving.
Living like Christ means serving when it’s hard, loving when it’s inconvenient, and humbling ourselves when the world tells us to do the opposite. It’s a life marked by selflessness and compassion, rooted in the example Jesus gave us in John 13.
Conclusion
Striving to live like Christ is not easy, but it is the path we are called to walk. Jesus’ act of washing His disciples’ feet reminds us of the importance of humility, service, and recognizing our need for His grace. As we seek to live like Christ, we must daily ask ourselves: how can I serve others and reflect Jesus’ love today?
By choosing to live like Christ, we allow His love to shine through us, bringing hope and healing to a world in desperate need of it.
Spread the Gospel, lives depend on it!
I pray, MARANATHA! (Come Quickly, Lord Jesus!)
Your brother in Christ, Duane
