1 Jesus knew before the feast of the Passover that the time had come for him to leave this world and return to his Father. He loved his own who were in the world to the very end.
2 The devil influenced the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simons son. So he betrayed him during the meal.
3 Jesus knew that the Father had given him power over all things. He also knew it came from God and he returns it to God.
4 He got up from the meal and laid aside his garments. He wrapped a towel around his waist.
5 Then he poured water into the basin and washed the disciples feet. He wiped them with the towel he was wearing.
6 When he approached, Simon Peter said: »Lord do you wash my feet?«
7 »You do not know what I do now,« Jesus said: »but you will understand later.«
8 Peter said: »You will never wash my feet.« Jesus answered him: »If I do not wash you; you have no part with me.«
9 Simon Peter replied: »Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.«
10 Jesus responded: »He that is bathed must wash his feet. He is clean everywhere and you are clean, but not all.«
11 He knew who would betray him. That is why he said you are not all clean.
12 After he washed their feet he put his outer garments on and sat down. He asked: »Do you know what I have done to you?
13 »You call me Teacher and Lord and you are right for I am.
14 »If the Teacher and Lord washed your feet you should wash one anothers feet.
15 »I have given you an example. You should also do as I have done to you.
16 »Truly I tell you, a servant is not greater than his master. Neither is one that is sent greater than he that sent him.
17 »If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.