Some touches mean more than others? Often this is determined by the relationship one has with the toucher. Therefore, some touching can be very touching while there can be touching taking place without being duly touched.
Consider this in light of the occasion of Jesus washing His disciple’s feet. (John 13:1-20) In spite of what Jesus knew was coming, He began that evening with this humble act of service for His disciples. We read. . .
“(3) Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, (4) rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. (5) Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” (John 13:3-5 ESV)
One-by-one, foot-by-foot, Jesus moved from disciple to disciple until He had washed their feet and then resumed His place at the table. (John 13:12) Other than the conversation with Peter (John 13:6-11), it seems Jesus simply quietly went about this act of humble service. Knowing what was to come, it was not only an opportunity to teach a lesson but to also demonstrate His love for each one of them. (i.e. John 13:1) Can’t we imagine how touching this moment must have been for the disciples?
As we consider this touching scene as the earthly ministry of Jesus was drawing to a close, let us remember there was a disciple turned betrayer in the room as well. (John 13:2, 11, 18) The foot washing included Judas’ feet. What appears is that Judas’ feet were touched but unfortunately not his heart! The relationship was not as it should have been and so he was not duly touched by the service of Jesus!
The touching of the heart. That’s where the real touching needs to be since that is where the door is opened for the whole life to begin being touched by Jesus and the blessings found in Him! We could read about, memorize Scripture about, quote about, and talk about, but unless the heart is open to the truth of Jesus and all He has fulfilled to provide our eternal salvation our life will not be touched as it should! May we truly have been drawn (or be drawn) to being united with Him to rise to walking in newness of life (Romans 6:3-4) as a truly new creation in Him (2 Corinthians 5:17)!
Have a great day RETAINING A TOUCHABLE HEART BEFORE THE LORD!
Carl
