Chaplain's Message

Picture this – Disciples on mats and cushions round the low table which was all prepared for the Passover – lamb, herbs, matzos and more …. Lamp burning softly, low conversations, an air of something strange?

The Last Supper – Jesus’ heart was so heavy yet the Disciples did not realise what was about to happen. He had alluded to the events but the gravity of the situation escaped them. Judas was about to betray him to the authorities, Peter was going to deny him 3 times, He was to be tried, beaten, spat on, a crown of thorns thrust into his head, nails, cross, crucified. Yet for now we are still at dinner.

Jesus gets up, fills the bowl from the jug on the windowsill, ties the towel round his waist and goes to kneel at the feet of his disciples to wash their feet as was the Jewish custom – but the guest of honour, the Teacher, Rabbi, Lord?? Surely not – but it is Peter who really arcs up at the situation. 

“No Jesus you are not going to wash my feet”.

Jesus response is quick and firm, “Peter, if you wont let me do this, you can have no part of me”

“Then Lord my hand and head also”, Peter amended quickly.

Jesus was really calling Peter on his pride – he would have been perfectly happy, I’m sure, to wash Jesus’ feet but wasn’t ready for the reverse. The example that Jesus was giving his disciples on this fateful night was the concept of the first shall be last and the last shall be first!  He is saying that there is no room for pride in this – it is your duty to serve those that need it regardless of rank or position.

What does that mean for us – firstly are we willing to receive the blessings Jesus has for us and secondly what does it mean in our lives, to wash the feet of others?

May we have eyes to see this Easter and wisdom to receive a new revelation of Jesus. 

John 13:14–17, He instructs His disciples: If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.

Keep safe and God bless.

~ Pastor Sarah Pollitt

College Chaplain