Daily Gospel Reflection for April 17, 2014

Today's Gospel: John 13:1-15

There is a small part of this passage that I can relate to every time I read it. There is the big lesson from Christ of humility as He washes the feet of the apostles.

But the one who learns true humility is Peter. He is thoroughly disgusted at the thought of his "Lord and teacher" doing something so beneath His place as to wash the feet of these men.  Peter argues the fact audibly, making somewhat of a scene, perhaps.

"You shall never wash my feet."  He thinks he is giving Christ due honor in this refusal. He desires to respect Jesus by not allowing Him to do such a menial task, especially on him.

But the lesson comes when Jesus tells Peter, "If I do not wash you, you have no part in me."

Peter truly desires to love The Lord in the best way possible.  He realizes that he cannot do this on his own terms but must submit himself to the plan of God that was planned from the beginning.  He wants to be the best follower of Christ, as we all do, but learns that becoming a follower means following, not calling all the shots.

Once he grasps the fact that he must always be obedient to Christ, trusting that His way is always best, Peter has no trouble allowing Christ to wash his feet, as well as all the rest of him. 

Ponder:

Do I get so caught up in trying to do everything as I think I should that I miss that quiet voice within me asking me to listen, to realize there may be another way?

Pray:

Lord, we thank you for showing us humility.  Help us to understand, like Peter, that sometimes we must bend, even to what we have always known, to truly follow You.  Help us to be open to your prompting.  Amen.

Copyright 2014 Diane Schwind