We are returning to this text a second time in as many days, but for a different emphasis. First of all, let us observe that the act of feet washing was not anything new to the Jewish community. It was part of customary welcome package for visitors. It was part of menial tasks that servants engaged in within the household of their masters. What was new was the fact that Jesus, being the Master, opted to do it for the disciples instead of the other way round. That was why Peter initially resisted the move. Again, let us observe that all the three characteristics of love played out in that one exercise. It was all inclusive – even Judas who eventually betrayed Him had his feet washed. It was sacrificial as well as practical.

“If we are ever going to love like Jesus, we have to be “servant-conscious”.”

Now, the first two words of our text are quite significant – “after that”. We might ask, after what? The previous verse supplies the answer. “…rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself.” It was after Jesus rose from supper, laid aside His garments, took a towel that He began to wash their feet. There are significant things in this verse for those who want to love like Jesus. Rising from dinner can stand for giving up some pleasure. Laying aside our garments may well stand for coming off any high horse we may be on by virtue of position or other privileges. When Jesus laid aside His garments and took towel, He assumed the position of a servant. If we are ever going to love like Jesus, we have to be “servant-conscious”.