554
The Desire of Ages
When the disciples entered the supper room, their hearts were full
of resentful feelings. Judas pressed next to Christ on the left side; John
was on the right. If there was a highest place, Judas was determined
to have it, and that place was thought to be next to Christ. And Judas
was a traitor.
Another cause of dissension had arisen. At a feast it was customary
for a servant to wash the feet of the guests, and on this occasion
preparation had been made for the service. The pitcher, the basin, and
the towel were there, in readiness for the feet washing; but no servant
was present, and it was the disciples’ part to perform it. But each of
the disciples, yielding to wounded pride, determined not to act the part
of a servant. All manifested a stoical unconcern, seeming unconscious
that there was anything for them to do. By their silence they refused
to humble themselves.
How was Christ to bring these poor souls where Satan would not
gain over them a decided victory? How could He show that a mere
profession of discipleship did not make them disciples, or insure them
a place in His kingdom? How could He show that it is loving service,
true humility, which constitutes real greatness? How was He to kindle
love in their hearts, and enable them to comprehend what He longed
to tell them?
The disciples made no move toward serving one another. Jesus
waited for a time to see what they would do. Then He, the divine
Teacher, rose from the table. Laying aside the outer garment that
would have impeded His movements, He took a towel, and girded
Himself. With surprised interest the disciples looked on, and in silence
waited to see what was to follow. “After that He poureth water into a
basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with
the towel wherewith He was girded.” This action opened the eyes of
the disciples. Bitter shame and humiliation filled their hearts. They
understood the unspoken rebuke, and saw themselves in altogether a
new light.
So Christ expressed His love for His disciples. Their selfish spirit
filled Him with sorrow, but He entered into no controversy with them
[645]
regarding their difficulty. Instead He gave them an example they would
never forget. His love for them was not easily disturbed or quenched.
He knew that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that
He came from God, and went to God. He had a full consciousness of