Familiarity can dull our senses and routine can blur our vision.

Ever get used to things being a certain way, comfortable in the familiarity of routine?When it comes to reading Scripture, we can sometimes drift off to autopilot when we’ve read it before. At least I can.

Recently I touched on the passage of Jesus washing the disciples feet as he demonstrated humility and service. Although this passage may be familiar, let’s resist the temptation to think, “Know that…” A closer look and a moment of our time is all God needs to break through the attention barrier to shine the light of grace.

Join me today and later this week as we consider a few foot-washing lessons.

Jesus… got up from supper, and laid aside His garments; and taking a towel, He girded Himself. Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.–John 13:4-5

Lesson One: Get up from the table.

Acts of service require that we get up from the table. Service begins with a willingness to stop what we may be doing in order to serve others. Uncomfortable, I think about all the things piled up waiting for my attention. Serving others?

Am I willing? This phrase echoes in my thoughts.

Lesson Two: Lay it aside.

Laying aside his garments…Jesus prepared to do the menial work of a servant, washing the feet of his disciples. As I read these words, the Holy Spirit quietly asks, “Are you willing to get up and lay aside in order to serve?”

I think of the times that I grumble inwardly when I am interrupted mid-project. I think of my snippy answers when asked to add something else to my loaded list of tasks.

Am I willing?

Good question.

Lesson Three: Sometimes understanding comes later.

When Peter asks, “Lord, do you wash my feet,” Jesus answers, “What I do you do not realize now, but you shall understand hereafter.” John 13:7

Stuck in my I-know-best way of thinking, I can relate to Peter’s question and confusion. There have been times when God’s directions or provisions don’t seem to make sense in light of what I think I know now.

Sometimes understanding why God is doing something in our lives is a process. Deeper understanding is often anchored to time and experience.

Am I willing to get up from my familiar life, lay aside my outward trappings in order to serve others with humility? Am I willing to wait for understanding that comes over time?

How about you? Is God prompting you to get up from the table and lay something aside in order to serve Him today?