John. 13:6
FRIENDSHIP IS having something together. Proximity and community are values that are important and that carries us through life. And whenever they are tested, we’re shaking. FRIENDSHIPS THAT LAST are based on reciprocity. It fails when there is only one party performs. Misunderstandings can build up and then break a friendship from within. Friendship is to have something together.
When we follow Jesus on his way to the cross, the road of pain, then we are watching a strong friendship that is broken and tested. Together with his 12 friends, he wandered day after day. They have shared joys and sorrows and come very close to each other.
Jesus tried to teach them the words and experiences so they can continue to tell the truth about God after he is gone. Through conversations and parables, he passed on the kingdom of God's secrets. Now the final phase - it's time for goodbye. The Jewish Celebration with Passover and a meal was going to be served as the disciples were well known with.
But the unexpected happens too: For the Master enter was at the server's location and began to wash his friends' feet. He takes the place of the lowest to show his affection and love. How is he an example for their friends and an example for us who have followed him? But it is difficult to receive than to give. It is easier to perform than to enjoy. We saw Peter.
As the strong and impulsive, he is quick: Never in your life if you should be washing my feet. Not difficult to understand Peter. If he had not known anything about his Master, he was convinced that there were differences in rank and dignity, despite their friendship.
He learns yet another lesson: Jesus conveys what friendship and love is based on: Mutual to receive and give to each other. He does not want subservience and subordination, but freedom and equality.
“Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus said: “If I do not wash your feet, we no longer have anything together.” (John 13)
Jesus calls his disciples friends. He will also be friends with people today. He will give us the greatest gift of all - their unconditional love and grace. He brings - but we have given something first - it's hard for us, as it was for Peter.
Where does the reciprocity disappear?
We provide enough when we give him our confidence, that he wants us the best and we trust that it's enough. His friends today as back then when he challenged to give this further: he gives us a new commandment that we love one another as He has loved us.
He wants us to have something together. He walked the pain away – by dying for you - so that we can still have it - today and every day.
"Oh, for the days
when I was in my prime,
when God's intimate friendship
blessed my house."
Job.29,4
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