John 13:12-14
February 20, 2026
John 13:12-14
Confess
Almighty and most merciful Father, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy upon us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways to the glory of your holy name. Amen.
Read and Reflect
John 13:12-14
12 When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.
After answering Peter’s initial objections, Jesus explains his reasons for washing his disciples’ feet. This action was intended to provide them with an object lesson. His followers rightly refer to Jesus as “Teacher and Lord," but Jesus rejects any expectation of preferential treatment in light of his elevated status. Jesus did not withdraw into a “Teacher’s” ivory tower or insist on his rights as “Lord”. He did not claim to be too important, too busy, or too preoccupied. Instead Jesus voluntarily stoops down to perform even the most menial task for his followers. Many aspects of Jesus’ life and ministry were singular and unrepeatable given the unique nature of Jesus’ identity. But Jesus performed this specific action with the expectation that his model would be followed.
How does pride stand in the way and prevent us from imitating Jesus in his service to others?
Pray
Weekly Collect
Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made, and you forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.