Washing Feet

Last night at our Maundy Thursday service we included Foot Washing as part of the service. I must admit that I was very curious when this was in the planning phase about how this would go over with the congregation. Its been years since we've done foot washing at West Jax.

Obviously, many people feel uncomfortable with the idea of someone handling or washing their feet. Because of this, we didn't push to have everyone participate. Twelve volunteers were identified prior to the start of the service to have the elders and pastors wash their feet - all others present were also invited to participate - which several did. One of the children even asked if they could come back for a second time. A number of people came forward and asked to wash the feet of the pastors and elders - this was a very humbling experience for me.

It's even more humbling to think how Christ, God incarnate, was willing to wash the feet of His disciples. The Son of God performing the task that in His day was only done by a servant. But I guess that is the point. This is quite a contrast to "leaders" today.

While foot washing might not be culturally relevant today, I wonder what menial tasks are. What seemingly lowly acts of service might come my way that would give me the opportunity to serve someone else - to love another as Christ loved - sacrificially. I pray that I would never think so highly of myself that I would miss the opportunity to show Christ's love in this way.