Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.
Have you ever thought about the verses in the Bible where it talks about Jesus washing the disciple’s feet or where He directs us to wash each other’s feet? This is something most people don’t think about or really meditate on. Many people, when they hear about this, often think “there is no way I am touching someone’s feet”. And still others will go to have pedicures and, in that situation, it is like someone washing your feet.
Look at the Bible verses. Back in Biblical times, the feet were always the dirtiest part. They wore open sandals everywhere and feet were always exposed to dirt. This is why foot washing was mentioned so many times in the Bible. The verse John 13:3-5 describes Jesus washing the feet of His disciples.
Imagine, Jesus, king of the world, our redeemer, getting down on the ground and washing His disciple’s feet. Their feet had to be so dirty yet He washed them. Jesus served His disciples giving an example of what we should do for each other. Jesus showed us how to be humble and serve others. What a wonderful way to teach love for your fellow man. Jesus taught by doing.
If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.
When we had communion yesterday at church, we participated in foot washing. This is always a special part of the service. We are given the opportunity to serve someone else, pray for them, and contemplate what Jesus did for us and what we are asked to do for our fellow man. All of this reflects love. That is what God is, pure love. That love came down in the form of Jesus to show us how to be love here on earth.
If you have an opportunity to participate in something like this, or given an opportunity to serve in some other way, do it. While you are serving remember what He did for us. Be humble, be thankful, and do it all with love in your heart.