Scriptures to read: Philippians 2:3; John 13:14; Matthew 20:28.
Have you ever been truly humbled? I remember one time in particular that I was. A group of about 20 men were attending a weekend retreat at Camp Jumonville and in our closing exercise for the worship time on Saturday night we held a foot washing service. My immediate thought was I’m not doing that! How can I wash someone else’s feet? That was really going to take me out of my comfort zone. Obviously, all I was thinking about was myself. Boy did I need an attitude check.
Looking closely at Matthew 20:28, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…” When thought of in that way, it provides a whole new perspective. John 13:14 says: “And if your Lord and teacher has washed your feet, you should do the same for each other.” As we proceeded with the service, both washing a brother’s feet and having my own feet washed, I experienced a deep sense of humility that is beyond comparison. It was deeply moving not only for me but the whole group. Tears were shed and bonds were deepened.
I want to challenge each of us (certainly me as well) that as we continue through this Lenten season that we keep in mind that we are sent to serve one another rather than to expect others to serve us. Let’s look for ways to serve not only in our homes, but in our church and in our community. It very well could turn out to be an experience you won’t soon forget.
Lord, provide us with the opportunities to be of service to You and to others. Thank you for the example Jesus gives us.
…. Bill Patrick
How true Bill but sometimes we don't allow others to serve. My first time at washing feet wasn't I don't want to wash someones feet but I don't want someone else washing mine. That was a humbling experience for me.
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