After Serving!

When Jesus was with His disciples as the time of His crucifixion and eventual departure from this realm drew near ( John 13:1), He got up from the supper and began washing the disciples' feet. In this humble act Jesus set an example for them to follow. ( John 13:15) As John recorded this touching scene of Jesus' interaction with the Twelve, he noted. . .

"(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?'" ( John 13:12 ESV)

After Jesus had completed this act of service, He RESUMED HIS PLACE at the table with them. Being rightfully known as their "Lord" and "Teacher" ( John 13:13-14), I would assume Jesus had been given the chief seat among them. He left that place ( John 13:4), served each one of them by washing their feet, and then RESUMED HIS PLACE.

Therein is also a picture of the whole of what Jesus has done on our behalf. He left the glory of Heaven ( John 17:5), came to serve ( Matthew 20:28), and as long as He was in this realm He continued in the works of Him Who had sent Him. ( John 9:4) Then, after completing all the work He came to fulfill ( John 17:4; 19:30), He left this earth to RESUME HIS PLACE.

Where Mark recorded the Lord's last words to His disciples we read. . .
"(19) So then THE LORD JESUS, after he had spoken to them, was TAKEN UP INTO HEAVEN and SAT DOWN AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD." ( Mark 16:19 ESV)

Yes, after serving the purposes of the Father here on earth, Jesus RESUMED HIS PLACE with the Father in Heaven. Is that not His rightful place? Yet, what a marvelous example of living a God glorifying life He has given us.

What are we doing? Are we following in His steps? Are we not also to continue working the works of God as long as it is day? ( John 9:4) The night (the time) is coming when our works here will cease. Then, after serving, we will receive the place Jesus has gone to prepare for us. ( John 14:2-3; 1 Thessalonians 4:17; 1 Peter 1:4) However, for now our place presently is to serve. May our life be spent doing so to our Lord's glory and praise.

Have a great day SERVING WHILE ENCOURAGED BY WHAT IS YET TO COME!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Service