In John 13, when Jesus’ disciples failed to wash their feet or each other’s feet before sitting down to eat, Jesus showed them and us an example of what it means to serve others. He saw the need. He knew their hearts, and He rose to the occasion. He knelt before His closest followers and washed their feet. After He was done, He sat down and asked them, “Know ye what I have done to you? Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you” (John 13:12b-15). Now, some think that the example He was speaking of was the physical “washing” of other’s feet. In Israel in that day, footwear was usually sandals, and they walked everywhere they went, therefore everyone’s feet got filthy throughout the day. Getting the lovely “job” of washing visitor’s feet, usually went to the lowest of servants. Jesus was willing to be that servant. I believe that He was talking about so much more than taking care of a physical “foot” need – He was talking about a “heart problem.”
It’s not like the apostles didn’t realize that their “neighbor” reclining at the table in front of them had “stinky feet.” They knew – they just didn’t want to “lower themselves” to do such a degrading task. But when there is a need, no task should be “beneath” us. I love the song, “Lord, Make Me a Servant.” The words are: “Lord, make me a servant; Lord make me like You. For You are a servant; Make me one, too. Lord, make me a servant. Do what You must do – to make me a servant. Make me like You.” Isn’t that wonderful?
Jesus went on to add in John 13:17, “If ye know these things, happy (blessed) are you, if you do them.” When I’m feeling down and am so wrapped up in myself, I find that reaching out to help others is one of the fastest ways to “get out of the dumps.” There are always others who are in need. Remember the saying, “I once complained because I had no shoes – until I met a man who had no feet.” We must look for opportunities to serve and do good to others. This is how to find happiness.
May you be blessed and be a blessing to others, Courtney
Very good!!