RBWords

     We are reminded at the beginning of today's gospel passage that Jesus is speaking in the context of the Last Supper, more specifically the time immediately after he has washed the disciples' feet and commanded that they follow his example.  The power of that gesture is one in which the disciples should recognize who Jesus truly is, but we know that full recognition would only come after the resurrection.  It is then that they will understand as much as any human can the expression:  I AM - which echoes the voice in the Burning Bush (Exodus 3).  Peter's attempt to refuse the washing draws the comment that his refusal would mean no share in Jesus' inheritance!

     Along with this expression of his identity, Jesus develops further the image of the sender/messenger.  If Jesus is the one whom the Father sent, and he washes the feet of the disciples, then those who receive the disciples (whom he will "send" after the resurrection by giving them the Spirit) receive him, and those who receive him, receive the one who sent him.  When Moses expresses reservations about his ability to represent God before Pharoah, the voice in the bush says, "I will be with you!"  The messenger who believes the message and realizes that it is more than information but a matter of faith in the sender that is involved then takes responsibility.  The old expression, "Don't shoot the messenger!" should not apply to discipleship.  Whoever receives God's messenger receives God.  Whoever accepts the ministry of the disciple accepts the ministry of Christ.  God grant that we may be worthy messengers!   AMEN