easter {wednesday}

It's not difficult for me to imagine having a last meal with a friend who's about to move. In my transient city community, people leave ALL year long. this week: i received 3 emails from friends who in my church who are moving/graduating school/leaving the city for a job change. 

Last Suppers are very familiar to me. 

I'm familiar with eating, laughing, talking, blessing, praying, wishing each other well. All the usuals of a special, final farewell meal together. 

But, washing feet. Not so familiar. 

John 13:1-17

If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.

I just LOVE Jesus. I imagine Him at His final meal, with friends gathered around Him, each one expecting tearful goodbyes and memories shared, and instead JESUS, washes their feet, one-by-one reminding them to serve each other in love after He's gone. This is love, He says, and I hope you'll carry on in this love even after I'm gone. 

Consider Carrying on Jesus' love by serving someone as he/she leaves. Help a friend move, or offer to pack for a neighbor going on a short trip, or make a meal for a friend who's accepted a job offer. Bless as Jesus blessed by serving in love. 

*originally published in Awana Lent Devotional 2015