Main Thought
To be hurt, whether by a complete stranger or by someone we love, is a part of the human experience. Jesus knew what it was like to be hurt too. Most of His own disciples abandoned Him, denied Him, or betrayed Him around the time of His Crucifixion. Yet Jesus loved those who hurt Him with incredible grace, truth, and service. It’s exciting to be a recipient of such love - but it can be intimidating to rise up to such a lofty standard. As followers of Jesus, we can work our way toward loving those who hurt us by taking steps of grace (which withholds judgement and chooses to desire good or bless); steps of truth (which presents the truth without malice and builds boundaries if necessary); and, steps of service (to meet the felt needs of others in different ways or degrees). The next, right step is often an uncomfortable one. But taking these steps will eventually bring us closer to God and form us to be more like Christ, all while we learn to rest assured in God.
Main Passages
14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
- John 1:14
3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him… 10 Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”
- John 13:3-5, 10-11
14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.
- John 13:14
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above? Why?
Think about a time you received grace, truth, or service, either from God or someone else. What happened? What did it feel like to receive these things?
Are there any situations in which you can take a step toward grace, truth, or service while choosing to love someone who hurt you? What might that step look like practically?