Value of Preparation

Pondering John 13:1-5.

Love. We are so flippant with this word. We use it as an amped up description of our likes. “I like pie but I love ice cream.” “I like walking through the woods but I love walking on the beach.” You get the picture. We all do it.

But love means more than an amplified expression of our preferences. And love is more than a feeling. It is a choice. Love is costly. It requires time, humility and sacrifice. Its beauty is realized when it is proven by actions.

Throughout the remainder of John’s gospel, Jesus explains, describes, and demonstrates love as He prepared His disciples for His upcoming death.

Jesus knew the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, He now showed them the full extent of his love.

Jesus knew He had very little time left to help His friends understand what they couldn’t see on their side of the cross. So He spent His last days preparing them for what could be expected as they moved forward after His death. Why? Because He loved them and knew the fear, grief and disappointment they would experience.

The next verses are very descriptive of Jesus’ preparation for one of His lessons. I believe every word is intentional.

First, He got up from the meal.

Next, He took off His outer clothing.

He then wrapped a towel around His waist.

He poured water into a basin.

And He washed His disciples’ feet.

Finally, He dried them with the towel wrapped around Him.

Years ago I read this passage and experienced one of those “aha” moments. I was very aware of my mediocre organizational skills. Truly! I once took an exam to evaluate skills, and I scored 0 when it came to organizing. Zero!

I first identified my deficiency when I accepted the position of leading Women’s Ministries. I knew I loved God and I loved women, but that was all I had to offer. Thankfully, God had prepared the way. Lisa was already there. We quickly became a team. All I had to do was say, “Lisa, I have an idea.” She would promptly whip out her notepad and pen and begin putting all the pieces together. I relied heavily on her.

Reading this passage, I noticed how specific the Bible was about Jesus’ preparation for ministry. Things don’t just happen without preparation. Lisa and I diligently worked together to prepare for events, Bible studies, conferences and meetings. Preparation was a crucial component to fulfilling God’s plans. And the preparation paved the way to producing fruit.

The lesson I learned on the value of preparation encourages me to study Scripture. First and foremost, I read the Bible so I can know God and His character. Second, I read so I can know myself in light of who He is and in light of His desires for me and my character. And I read because His Word prepares me for what this life throws at me.

I believe that Jesus is still in the business of preparing us for the unknown. I think He still wants to show us how to navigate through life without fear. And He uses His living Word. This is His gift, an expression of love for us.

There is no way I could have adequately prepared physically for the pandemic we faced in 2020. We were traveling uncharted territory. No one could foresee the far reaching ramifications of COVID-19.

Fear ruled the day for most. But when I began traveling down the path filled with anxiousness and fear, I would be reminded of God’s truth. Fear was quickly replaced by faith. I experienced the peace that surpasses all understanding. I know the end of my story. And it’s a “happily ever after” ending.

Question to ponder:

How well have I prepared for such a time as this?