Bath time for little ones is a time of great enjoyment, because it means undivided attention from a parent who needs to be on hand to make sure the child is safe. It works that way when an elderly parent needs help bathing too. This very personal time is a way to show compassion for those we care about.

Jesus demonstrated His love for His disciples when He washed their feet. He placed Himself in a position reserved for servants. Can you imagine how much grime a person would pick up walking in sandals through all kinds of filth each day? Streets weren’t paved – they were littered with garbage – cluttered with dirt and animal dung – a breeding place for disease. It was a necessary daily task to clean them thoroughly – getting deep into every nook and cranny and under each toenail.

We are exposed to similar dirt in our lives, but it goes much deeper than a need for surface washing. The only way our sin can be eliminated is through the cleansing that comes from Christ alone. When He washed His disciples’ feet He was demonstrating the internal cleansing He would provide for the entire human race.

When He died for us, the ugliness of sin was washed away. Through this ever so personal act, He also established His bond with us. We now have that perfect relationship with the Father – the one He always intended for us.