In the closing chapters of the Gospel of John there is recorded most helpful instruction to students of Christian Science, those harvesters desirous of bringing in good fruit. The great Exemplar had just finished with his disciples what has come to be known as the Lord's Supper. His whole experience with them had been to show them the love of his Father, God, Mind, and how, in turn, they should unselfishly love all mankind. In the following instance he found one more opportunity to teach and prove again his heart's love for them.
The Master, the best and therefore the greatest man the world has ever known, poured "water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded." What an example of humility and brotherly love! Their "Lord and Master," he reminded them; and still he could perform this menial act of service. He was exemplifying to them his new commandment: "That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." Furthermore, he intimated that the only way the world could know that they were his disciples would be by the fruits of their unselfish and loving deeds to God's other children.
Always is a reward coupled with Jesus' commands. Never were more glorious promises made than are written in the discourse that follows this lowly, yet magnanimous demonstration of love. Therein is to be found the promise that all should have eternal life who would follow in the way which he had shown; that whatsoever should be asked in his name would be granted; that the holy Comforter would follow his departure, and would teach them all things, and bring all things to their remembrance, whatsoever he had said unto them.
