Standing In Humility

No religion in this world speaks of their god washing the feet of their disciples. Only Jesus did this lowly service on the very night He was betrayed, even washing the betrayer's feet.

One article says foot washing was left to slaves, mostly women. John 13:14 says, "If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet" (KJV). Jesus rightly asserted His title and position, but demonstrated through humility an example of something He wanted them to practice.

I don't believe Jesus was asking for them or churches to hold foot washing services (when younger I attended one or two of them which was very interesting). Rather, he was requiring a level of humility and love to be expressed toward one another.

I believe the overall context is within the Great Commission to preach the gospel.

Isaiah says, "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!" (52:7, NIV). And in Romans 10:15, we read, "And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!" (KJV).

In hours of having their feet washed, most of the disciples fled from Jesus once the guards along with Judas stormed the garden where He was praying. These same feet walked miles with Jesus for nearly three years. Later, they would gather in the upper room where the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples and others with power from on high. Many of them would carry the gospel throughout the known world far beyond the borders of Jerusalem.

Even today I venture to say that many saint's feet are weary having travel through life and perhaps to various parts of the world preaching the gospel. We can refresh the body of Christ by "washing" their feet through words of encouragement. We could provide a resting place. Or better still, stand in their shoes in the battle field on their behalf.

If you see a brother or sister limping from the battle, let them lean on you. If you see an older warrior stumble, stand in his or her place in prayer where they may have been standing for years believing God's promises. Remember the Scripture that having all done we are to stand - and I might add, stand along side another brother and sister.