Blessing our Neighborhood & City

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

Read John 13:1-17. What surprises, encourages, or sparks questions for you?

Notice the three verbs of preparation: Jesus got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist; as well as the three verbs of action: Jesus poured water, washed the disciples’ feed, and dried them with a towel. Implicit is also the verb that Jesus knelt. How does seeing Jesus as the God who kneels with preparation and action, shape your understanding of God?

Putting yourself in the scene from John 13, how would you respond? To receive Jesus’s washing is to admit that we are in need of his cleaning, his grace: the unconditional acceptance to an underserving person by an un-obligated giver. How do you daily live in this posture of receiving?

In John 13:15 Jesus says, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” Jesus wants us to follow the example/pattern/map he has set: looking to the interests of others, giving mercy, reflecting his character. We get to color in the outline provided for us with our own creative opportunities to love others well. How are you practicing this invitation to do as Jesus has done for you? How do you see “foot washing” happening at Covenant?