Holy Thursday – Jesus Washing Peter’s Feet – Ford Madox Brown (1852-6)
Jesus Washing Peter’s Feet, (Ford Madox Brown, painted 1852-6) is a painting located in the Tate Gallery in London.
This painting captures the moment of St. Peter, reluctantly, having his feet washed by Jesus. His posture tells the observer that he is not happy about this but he listens to his Master. Look at how intently and lovingly Jesus washes the feet of Peter. Peter is the one who will deny him yet, Jesus is tender in his task. The other disciples watch with a variety of reactions, from confused fascination to complete consternation. Observe the disciple already leaning forward, undoing his sandal, eager to have his feet washed – there is a money bag in front of him on the table indicating that he is Judas. Jesus will wash his feet with the same love even knowing the part Judas will play in his upcoming death.
Following the washing of his friends’ feet, Jesus said, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord – and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.” John 13. 12-15
How do you serve others? How do you allow Jesus to love you?
For further facts on this painting see: https://www.theartofpainting.be/AOP-Christ_washes_the_Feet.htm