Thursday, March 28, 2013

FULLY CLEANSED (03-28-13)


Maundy Thursday

John 13:14-15
“If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet.  I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.”

At least once a week, I would have my feet subjected to a foot spa.  They will be soaked in warm water with soap for about 15 minutes.  Then, the sole will be scrubbed to take away dead skins and calluses.  Finally, a basic foot massage will be applied.  Your feet is supposed to feel rejuvenated and clean afterwards.

But when Jesus washed the feet of his disciples, this is not the same as having a foot spa.  It is far from it.  People at that time do not wear closed shoes.  And, the dusty and dirty conditions of the region and the wearing of sandals necessitated foot-washing.  Moreover, foot-washing was reserved for the lowliest of menial servants.

Peers did not wash one another's feet, except very rarely and as a mark of great love.  And so the Lord did it for the disciples as a mark of true and supreme humility and of true love for them… and for us.  Through this action Jesus taught the lesson of selfless service that was supremely exemplified by His death on the cross.

As the followers of Jesus, we are asked follow Christ, to humble ourselves, to wash the feet of others especially those under our care.  In real life are we willing to demonstrate that humility and love for those below us?  Are we willing to sacrifice whatever we can for the betterment of others?

Let us ask God to also give us this great virtue of humility so that we can in our own small ways, bring about the peace and harmony in our own surroundings.  Let Him cleanse our feet… our heart and our soul.

Let us pray +

Lord Jesus, washing the feet of others is not something that we want to do. We all have trouble with humility and service, esteem and pride. Help us today to become less of ourselves and more of You.  Amen.

Our blessing-cup is a communion with the Blood of Christ.

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