August 11, 2018: SOAP #3173   Jeremiah 7-9; John 13

Scripture:  John (NIV) 13:3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; 4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel round his waist. 5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped round him. …
14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. …
17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

Observation:   All Jesus needed to serve His disciples that night was a basin with water and a towel—simple items readily available.  Jesus did not send one of his disciples out to the market to get a plush towel, a fancy basis, and some bottled water; He used what was available.

As I think on this, it seems Jesus usually followed that same pattern of using what was readily available.  He did send his disciples to get a donkey and to look for food to feed the five thousand, but He only used what was available.  There was no pleading for or worrying about money.

Application:  Does this mean that Jesus will never have us go out looking for what we need to serve Him?  No.  But, I believe it honors Him when I start with what I have available.  If I am faithful with using the tools available, I have found Him willing to supply what is needed.  I believe I should put my focus on using the tools I already and let Him focus on providing what I lack.

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, I want you to be able to count on me to go where you want me to go and do what you want me to do.  I want you to know that I count on you to provide what is needed for me to fulfill your will.  I will obey your command and trust what you provide. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!