What Jesus Did! 'Words or Deeds?' — John 13:6-9

Sunday, September 9, 2018

Jesus came to Simon Peter. But Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, you should not wash my feet." Jesus answered, "You don't know what I am doing now. But later you will understand." Peter said, "No! You will never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "If I don't wash your feet, then you cannot be one of my people." Simon Peter answered, "Lord, after you wash my feet, wash my hands and my head too!"
— John 13:6-9 NLT
Illustration of John 13:6-9 NLT — "Lord, after you wash my feet, wash my hands and my head too!"

Key Thought

Peter hasn't learned the lesson. Jesus wants his disciples to demonstrate their faith and love. Talk is cheap. Peter is a big talker. Even in this moment of Jesus' example and sacrifice, Peter wants to talk big. Jesus, however, stoops low and washes Peter's feet, too. Peter may not understand at that moment, but he will later for the rest of his life. He will then live to demonstrate his faith and loyalty and not just talk about it!

Today's Prayer

Lord God, please forgive me when my deeds don't match up to my worship words. I know that kind of hypocrisy turns your stomach so I ask that more than just forgiving me, please help me become the person I say that I am and that I want to be. Humble me gently until I am like Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Matthew 7:21
  • James 1:22-25
  • James 2:17

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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