Daily Devotion for April 17 - John 13:14 - 15

Verse

John 13:14–15 – “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.”

Meditation

Christ, the Lord of glory, stooped to wash the feet of sinners. He laid aside His garments as He would soon lay aside His life. In this act of humble service, He teaches not just a lesson, but a way of life. His disciples are not above their Master. As He loved, served, and stooped low, so also must we. The Kingdom of God is not built by pride or power, but through humility, self-denial, and love for neighbor. The towel and basin become symbols of Christ’s reign—a kingdom where the greatest is servant of all. We follow in His steps, not by exalting ourselves, but by stooping in love for others.

Old Testament

Micah 6:8 – “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
The prophet calls for a life of humility and mercy, which Christ embodies in His service and commands us to follow.

Collect

Almighty and merciful Lord, who stooped to serve even those who would soon betray and deny You, grant us grace to follow Your example in humility and love. Cleanse us not only with water, but with the Spirit of Your mercy, that we may bear one another’s burdens and serve as You have served us; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Hymn Verse

“Jesus! Name of wondrous love,
Name all other names above,
Unto which must every knee
Bow in deep humility.”
— Jesus! Name of Wondrous Love – LSB 900:1