Christ accept those who accept him

Gospel

John 13:16-20

Whoever welcomes the one I send welcomes me

After he had washed the feet of his disciples, Jesus said to them:

‘I tell you most solemnly,

no servant is greater than his master,

no messenger is greater than the man who sent him.

‘Now that you know this, happiness will be yours if you behave accordingly. I am not speaking about all of you: I know the ones I have chosen; but what scripture says must be fulfilled: Someone who shares my table rebels against me.

‘I tell you this now, before it happens,

so that when it does happen

you may believe that I am He.

I tell you most solemnly,

whoever welcomes the one I send welcomes me,

and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.’

Reflection

Jesus speaks to his disciples about humility, service, and faithful reception. He reminds them that true status is not found in power or authority, but in willingness to follow and to send others with the same mission. When we welcome those whom the Lord sends, we are not merely approving a person—we are welcoming Christ himself and, through him, the Father who sent him. The foot-washing scene anchors this: authentic leadership is expressed in service, reciprocity, and readiness to be sent and to send others. The passage challenges us to examine our response to those God places in our lives—amid close relationships and ordinary moments—so that our hospitality becomes a recognition of Christ’s presence.

Reflection Question

How can I cultivate a posture of humble service and welcome toward those God places in my life this week, recognizing Christ in the ordinary moments of daily interactions?

Prayer

Loving God, deepen my heart to serve as Christ served — with humility, gentleness, and generosity. Help me to recognize Jesus in the faces of those you send into my life, and to welcome them as I would welcome you. May my actions reflect the truth that true greatness lies in faithful service, and may I be open to being sent by you to others. Grant me grace to live this truth with joy and peace. Amen.

Comments

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