"If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet." (John 13:14)
The definition of the word "mutual" is as follows: "(of a feeling or action) experienced or done by each of two or more parties toward the other or others. A partnership based on mutual respect and understanding." "Held in common by two or more parties."
It is refreshing to see people having a mutual love and concern for one another. In this day and age, it is a rare thing to see. Whether it be in the home, or business, or in social activities, it is rare to see people putting the welfare of others before themselves.
Jesus set the example for His disciples (and us) when He saw the need to wash the dirty feet of His disciples. No one in this circle was going to lower themselves to the level of a servant. The disciples did not even consider doing this for one another, so Jesus grabs a towel and a basin of water, and shocks the disciples by His action. Peter vocalized his protest by saying to Jesus: "You shall never wash my feet."(v.8)
In essence Peter was saying: "Lord, a teacher is not to take the position of a servant!" But Jesus responses to Peter, "If you you will not submit to me in this, than you will have no part of Me."(v.8) You will have no part in my humility and concern for others, which marks the kingdom of God.
There are various reasons why we don't show mutual love and concern for others. People (including myself) find this a very difficult thing to do. The biggest stigma in this, is the love and respect for self.
We are very guarded when it comes to self. When others hurt us, do you think we want to wash their dirty feet? Do you think we want to stoop down and show the love of Christ, when we have been hurt time and time again. We feed our spirit of pride, arrogance, and self preservation. But here is the charge from our Lord: "For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you." (v.15)
No matter how we feel about others, we have a responsibility to do, as our Lord, and Master Jesus Christ, instructs us to do! But to our surprise, this approach may produce better results in our relationships, than our arrogant, stand-offish, prideful, self-centered, approach!
Why don't we give this "mind of Christ" a chance? Let's focus on looking out for "One another", and see what happens! GP
Photo: Laura Merchant - Creationswap.com
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