John 13:12-15—When He had finished washing their feet, He put on His clothes and returned to His place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” He asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 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.”
If you believe that washing dishes is woman’s work and refuse to set foot in the kitchen to help your wife do you understand what Jesus did by washing His disciples feet? If you believe that sex is bothersome and refuse to meet your husband’s needs because “you are tired,” do you understand what Jesus did by washing His disciples feet?
Somehow we have glorified the foot-washing ceremony as deeply profound while at the same time shelving it as an antiquated demonstration that no longer pertains to our shoe-covered society. By doing so we have lost the dynamic truth that the very essence of ministering to people involves serving them at the most ordinary level.
Mowing a shut-in’s lawn, changing the oil of one who is mechanically clueless, fixing a friend’s computer, making coffee for tired co-workers--these are all simple foot-washing opportunities. Whenever we are adjacent to needs we are adjacent to ministry. It is the simple act of serving in the most mundane of places that enables us to communicate love to one another. How refreshing it is to encounter people who in humility think nothing of observing and seizing opportunities to assist those around them.
Would you stop what you are doing right now! Look around you with new eyes and ask, “Heavenly Father, who can I serve?” When the Holy Spirit speaks, don’t hesitate. Give the cup of cold water to the thirsty soul beside you in Jesus’ name and for His glory! And if by chance you are one of those discouraged souls who serves all the time without recognition. Don't lose heart. God sees what you do. If your heart is right, your reward is in heaven!
Inspiration
