Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. (Jn 13:3-5)
In ancient times, providing water to wash a guest’s feet was an expected ritual of hospitality. As such, we find numerous references to the practice in the Bible (for example, Gen 18:4; 19:2; 24:32; 43:24; 1 Sam 25:41; Lk 7:44). However, a proper host did not wash another’s feet; that would be demeaning. Rather, he or she merely provided the water.
Jesus broke with all precedent by washing his disciples’ feet and commanding them to do likewise. While most believers interpret this command metaphorically, the church also has a long tradition of literal footwashing as a touching act of humility and service in the spirit of Jesus.
One very old tradition, known to Ambrose of Milan, the early Irish saints, and many others, has foot washing as part of the baptismal liturgy. The medieval Waldensians washed the feet of visiting ministers. Other groups, especially in the Anabaptist tradition, practice footwashing as a prelude to the Lord’s Supper.
The most common footwashing tradition is connected with the celebration of the Lord’s Supper on Maundy Thursday. As such, it is a fitting parable of Jesus’ command to love one another (Jn 13:34-35).
Water is a symbol of servanthood in at least two Gospel passages. In John 13, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet as a way of displaying servanthood and teaching them to serve one another. In Matthew 10:42, Jesus praises those who offer a cup of cold water because they are his disciples.
In a dry, dusty environment, water implies life, refreshment, and security. Clean water was hard to come by, and to offer it to another—whether for washing or for drinking—was welcomed as an act of hospitality. Perhaps that is why Jesus also spoke of experiencing the kingdom of God in terms of “living water” (Jn 4:10). Perhaps that is an aspect of the symbolism of baptism that deserves more of our attention.
What physical substance best describes how God has worked in your life?
I took part in such a foot washing on Maunday Thursday last. It was a profound experience of equality. It surprised me that it was not an issue of service. It is something I will not forget.
I took part in such a foot washing on Maunday Thursday last. It was a profound experience of equality. It surprised me that it was not an issue of service. It is something I will not forget.
I guess I’d have to say the the physical substances that have made the biggest impact in my life would be ‘the water of baptism’ and the ‘bread and wine of communion’.
In those physical substances, the living God has promised to be present for me (us).
So, even though there is no real evidence that He is there and working in me the forgiveness of sins, and granting me life and salvation, I trust that it is true.
Thanks!
– Steve M.