The Loveliness of the Commonplace

(Part 1)

“I have told you this so that
My Peace will be with you.
In the world you will have trouble.
But don’t be sad!
I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

They had spent the evening together. They had shared a meal, spent time together in a
comfortable setting, and had enjoyed uninterrupted time relaxing and simply enjoying each
other’s company without the frequent demands that came to Jesus from people who wanted His attention and help. Jesus had washed their feet before the meal, taking personal time in that simple, kind, practical act with each of His dearest followers. They had been through so much together in the past few years.

They did not realize what was so soon to come as they sat with Him, relaxing that evening. He showed no signs of worry, or fear, or sadness as they spent that time together. Jesus was focused on His friends, giving them encouragement. They were not aware of how frightening and difficult the coming hours and days would be. . . not only for them, but for Him.

In those hours spent together, Jesus gave His full attention to them. He was not focused on the horrors that He knew were to take place later that night and the coming days. His full attention was on them. He was focused on them. . . these friends with whom He had shared Life and ministry for the past three years.

I cannot imagine spending the final hours of my life, knowing of horrific events that would soon begin to unfold, focused on a roomful of friends, sharing a meal, being the “Perfect Host,” and being fully Present with them throughout that final evening. What Love! What selfless attention He focused on them. Simple. Practical. Needful. Care for His friends. Serving them, with the full knowledge of what was to come for Him.

May my focus . . . my priorities . . . my energies reflect to the people who matter most in my life, the selflessness that Jesus lived and breathed each day. May my eyes be focused on serving and loving well throughout my days. Even when my own heart may be troubled and broken, may I reflect the One Who has loved me so well, even when it was not deserved. May those simple, practical ways of caring for the people in my life be a reflection of Jesus. . . and allow Him to use it in ways that I never could.