Thought to Guide Your Reading
At a time when Jesus was preparing to be brutally executed for being Himself, He told His Apostles to love each other.Summary in 100 Words or Less
The Jews wanted Jesus removed swiftly.During the Passover, Jesus gave bread and wine to represent His body and blood.
Jesus washed the Apostles' feet, "I, your Teacher, washed your feet. Lead and serve."
Jesus told them about His betrayer.
Jesus continued, "My Moment is here. Your new commandment: Love each other as I loved you."
Peter would deny Jesus three times. Satan wanted to sift him like wheat.
Jesus warned of tough times ahead.
On the Mount of Olives, Jesus prayed but the Apostles slept.
Judas betrayed Jesus.
Peter denied knowing Jesus three times.
Jesus was beaten and mocked.
How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right
Jesus modeled love.
I have tried to stay away from trite phrases like "Jesus was the model …" because they were so overdone while I grew up. With that in mind, I love the fact that Jesus modeled love with His Apostles until the end. As a teacher, I realize there are times when you want to pound your students' heads in. Jesus had Apostles that didn't get it. They kept looking for a political kingdom when Jesus wanted them to think of an action kingdom. They wanted to be the greatest when Jesus wanted them to get rid of competition. Through all of that Jesus continued to love and teach them. How awesome is our Savior!Jesus washed the Apostles' feet to show both His submission and holiness.
Jesus wanted the Apostles to focus on serving as many as possible, not setting up different classes of people. It also symbolized holiness, something that went over Peter's head. Unless we are clean (holy), we cannot be God's Chosen People.Jesus added a new command: love each other.
It seems simple until you realize He is speaking to the Apostles who don't understand what He is about. If they could not figure it out, we should not expect people born today to have everything down. What Jesus added at the end provides the impetus for our love—so the world may know we are His Disciples. We cannot show Jesus to the world unless we are willing to love each other.Peter was commissioned to help regroup.
Jesus knew everyone would abandon Him. He gave Peter the job of reorganizing the Movement after they abandoned Him. Remember: this was before he denied Jesus. No matter what we do, Jesus still calls us to our task.Are you letting your past prevent you from helping others set their relationships right?
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