Scriptures: John 13:4-5 (NLT) – “So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin.  Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.”

John 13:15 (NLT) – “I have given you an example to follow.  Do as I have done to you.” 

John 13:34b-35 (NLT) – “Love each other.  Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.  Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” 

Message: When our son, Brendan, came to us about 10 years ago and said he was taking a position in California, we of course started our last-minute advice and teachings.  It was three weeks of “Remember to do this”; “Don’t forget that”; “Do you remember how to do laundry and how to cook that?”.  Our own little final discourse for him.  A year later, it was our two daughters, Paige and Sarah, who also made the move out of state.  As each one left, I was left with this feeling of did we show them how to live.  It’s easy to say this is what you should do and how you should act, but are your actions reflecting what you are saying?

John Chapters 14-17 is what is commonly called “Jesus’ farewell discourse”.  However, before He starts teaching, He stops everything, gets up and He washes their feet and takes the time to dry them.  To me, that is just such a powerful teaching.  It so beautifully sums up that Jesus’ actions are what we are to emulate.  If we study His teachings, but do not put them to use, what does the world gain from that?

We are currently living in chaos.  As I’m writing this devotion, we have attacked Venezuela.  The Epstein files are still not released, and ICE continues to kidnap our brothers and sisters in Christ, and hateful language is all around us.  Later in Chapter 13, Jesus gives us a new “Love” commandment.  Maybe these Scriptures call us to stop, put on our coat, and get out there and help our neighbors.

Prayer: Heavenly Lord, give us strength and courage to live out Your Son’s teachings and actions.  Let us be Your light and love to all whom we encounter.  Let our actions speak louder than our words.   Amen.

Debbie Babbage To see 2 of 2