Without looking at His God side, what kind of man was Jesus and how did He treat others? Well, we know he loved people even though it's not recorded that He went around telling them "I love you" or hugging them, yet He definitely showed love.
He treated people with respect, compassion, honesty, without regard for status, reputation or gender. (Jh. 4)
Jesus shared the truth and tried to help them find eternal life, even giving His own life for the cause (Jh. 15:13). He shared what He had (Mr. 8:5,6), met physical needs (Lk. 5:1-3), and showed the power of God behind His words by healing (Mt. 9:2-8), doing miracles (Jh. 2:1-12), casting out demons (Mr. 1:25,26), raising the dead (Lk. 8:51-56) and even changing nature (Mt. 8:27).
Jesus acted as a friend, mentor, brother, advisor, and teacher. He went out of His way to bring the truth to people, spent many hours teaching, healing, and in prayer. He tried very hard to show people the way of salvation, even spending time with those considered 'unlovable' or wicked, reaching the 'unreachable' (Mr. 16:9) and touching the 'untouchable' (Mt. 8:3). Jesus also challenged their thinking, beliefs and traditions in trying to get them to see the truth.
Now, when you read certain passages in the Bible, it's important to remember Jesus' deeds in order to know just what the Scripture means. Make sure you think of His acts when reading the following:
For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, A servant is not greater than his master, neither is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. Jh. 13:15-17
having loved His own in the world, He loved them to the end. Jh. 13:1
having loved His own in the world, He loved them to the end. Jh. 13:1
The verses after the foot washing, aren't just about that specific act. There were several lessons Jesus wanted the disciples to learn from His act of humility, but one of the basic lessons is that of service to others out of love for them. Jesus said we would do the things He did so we know we have the capability (Jh. 14:12) through Him.
So- by His example in treatment of others- we need to do as He has done and follow His example. And if we do these things, (the things He did) we will be blessed.
Oh precious Lord, help us to be more like You every day, and to love as you loved!