Dr Paul Allen

Français : Basilique-cathédrale Notre-Dame de l'Annonciation de Moulins; vitrail néogothique. La Cène. Détail: Judas. (Photo credit: Wikipedia ) “The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot , son of Simon, to betray Jesus . Jesus . . . got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, . . . and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” John 13:2–5 NIV It has been a long day. Jerusalem is packed with Passover guests, most of whom clamor for a glimpse of the Teacher. The spring sun is warm. The streets are dry. And the disciples are a long way from home. A splash of cool water would be refreshing. The disciples enter the room, one by one, and take their places around the table. On the wall hangs a towel, and on the floor sits a pitcher and a basin. Any one of the disciples could volunteer for the job, but not one does. After a few moments, Jesus stands and removes his outer garment. H...

Christ Washing the Feet of the Apostles by Meister des Hausbuches, 1475 (Gemäldegalerie, Berlin). (Photo credit: Wikipedia ) “Teach me to do your will, for you are my God .” Psalm 143:10 We should always be grateful for God’s clear instructions for successful living and for revealing how we can gain a glorious eternity with Him. Yet simply reading and understanding God’s will for us isn’t enough. We must also choose in obedience to follow it—and that’s the difficult part. So often, we are too headstrong to submit. The mother of a strong-willed four-year-old once said to her daughter, “Now, Cathy, you’re just going to have to obey me. I’m your boss, and I have the responsibility to lead you. That’s just what I intend to do.” Little Cathy thought for a minute, and then replied, “How long does it have to be that way?” Even at age four, this child was already yearning to forge her own path. Most of us were just as determined when we were kids. It’s vital that your sons and daughters l...

Christ washing the feet of the Apostles, by Giotto di Bondone (Cappella Scrovegni a Padova) (Photo credit: Wikipedia ) “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet , you also should wash one another’s feet.” John 13:14 Husband, we’re speaking especially to you tonight. Just as selfishness is a sure marriage killer, an attitude of service and sacrifice—the “I’m Third” philosophy—is an indisputable marriage builder. We urge you to study your wife . What is it that speaks to her heart? Are you providing that for her? Would she appreciate help with the dishes, vacuuming, or changing the baby’s diaper? Should you be more romantic? Could you put off that weekend auto show so she can visit her sister? Maybe you’d rather go fishing on Saturday, but should you watch the kids instead so your wife can have a needed day out? Jesus gave us a classic example of service when He washed His disciples’ feet and told them to do the same for one another. Is it time for some symbolic ...