STINKY FEET

If you have never participated in a service of foot washing---you have missed a blessing!  I must admit, after years of running abuse, I keep my feet well hidden these days.  They are not a pretty sight and after a long hot day of being in socks hidden behind a sneaker (how's that for an old fashioned word), I am more than embarrassed to put them on display, much less have someone wash them for me.  Think humbling on the part of both parties--the washer and the washee.  It is a stark reminder of what Jesus did for us.




After hearing this referenced in a recent lesson, I began to wonder have I washed anyone's feet lately?  There have been times in my life, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt my service was indeed figuratively  washing of the feet.  The things I was called upon to do for my mother during her final illness were not always pleasant, but they taught me a lesson in reconciliation I am so thankful for.  There have been those acts of service such as mudding out flooded houses that were definite feet washings---stink and all.  At times those we serve, do not look like us or smell like us, but who are we called to serve - the least of these.  We are metaphorically washing feet.


The question becomes---who have I served and what have I done to show others the face of Jesus on a daily basis?  As I pondered this it occurred to me when I help with the grands, pack boxes for my hard working son & wife, cook a meal for us all, or perform any task for the sake of another--giving up my routine and what I might prefer for the moment--it is an act of service.  I do it out of love---just as Jesus did so much for us-out of love.  SO--do not beat yourself up for not being out in the BIG ARENA of the mission field.  I can assure you, if that is where God wanted you--intended for you --you would know.  He would throw open the doors and keep nudging and perhaps pushing  you until you got it.  God is NOT subtle---He is direct.  


The next time you are called to wash your feet or the feet of another --think about this.  Whose feet have I washed today in an act of love which reflects Gods' great love for me?  A little soap can do wonders for all of us---

" ' If I then, your Lord and Teacher,

have washed your feet,

you also ought to wash one another's feet.' "

John 13:14-15



2 comments

  1. Years ago, I did experience an in-church foot washing, but I was not personally a participant, just observer. It is a humbling experience even to watch. May we all strive to show the humility of Jesus when we serve others in our day to day lives.
    Blessings, Lulu!

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    Replies
    1. It was one of the sweetest and dearest services I have ever been a part of. Truly humbling.
      Blessings, Martha!

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