Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. – (John 13:14-15, NIV)
I am your Lord and Teacher. But I washed your feet. So you also should wash each other’s feet. I did this as an example for you. So you should serve each other just as I served you. – (John 13:14-15, ERV)
So if your Lord and Teacher washes your feet, then you should wash one another’s feet. I am your example; keep doing what I do. – (John 13:14-15, VOICE)
At the time that this particular text was written, washing a person’s feet was a filthy and degrading practice. People traveled by sandaled foot, across dry and dusty terrain. I imagine that by the day’s end, feet were about as filthy as they could get, and washing people’s feet as they returned home was not a coveted position. However, Jesus demonstrated what it is to love and serve one another, as He stooped down and washed the feet of His disciples. His willingness to get into the mess with them and help get them clean, was the perfect example of servant leadership. We are not called to lead nor teach from a position above anyone else; rather, we are called to walk beside others, helping out where things are messy, so that each individual can bring their best foot forward. As an educator, this is a timely reminder. How do I care for my students best, so that they are served and loved in a way that readies them to be led forward to becoming their best selves? May we each go forth in pursuit of ways to “wash the feet” of those around us, so that we may love and serve others, in the same way that we have been loved and cleansed by God.
After speaking with mom late yesterday afternoon, the biggest prayer is that her in-home therapies get going. Yesterday was a bit of a rest day, as she hadn’t really felt like doing much of anything. The day prior she had done a significant amount of walking, so I encouraged her that everyone needs an occasional rest day. My brother-in-love and nephew had just returned home from a short get-away, so the conversation was brief, and mom was eager to hear about their adventures. I am blown away by the kindness extended to me by my colleagues who are familial-like friends, as so many have checked in and inquired about mom. Several are praying and extending well-wishes, as they have been since the beginning.
With eyes open wide,
It’s not hard to see;
Places to reach out,
Lend hand, meet a need.
We are created,
To love and to serve;
As Jesus loves us,
Not as is deserved.
Lord, help us to love,
Do so, tangibly;
So people feel known,
And hearts are set free.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You sent Your Son to show us what it is to love and serve one another. Thank You that You call us to come alongside one another and get in the trenches beside each other. Thank You that You equip and strengthen us for all that You ask of us. Forgive us for the times that we have been unwilling to serve in spaces where we should. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would have a heart like Yours. Show us how to love people with a servant’s heart, that is willing to step into the muck and help clear a way out. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we love You and love those around us, in the way we are called to love. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. – Galatians 5:13
Revelations In Writing 