Today’s Reading: John 13:3-5(NIV)
3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under His power, and that He had come from God and was returning to God, 4 so He got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around His waist. 5 After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash His disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him.
Good morning!
When I’m home, I like to go barefooted around the house. I wear dress shoes every day of the week and it is a treat for me to put my shoes in the closet and not look at them for a few hours each day. Because I enjoy going barefooted, my feet tend to get really dirty, especially if I run outside to the garden or make a quick trip to the curb with the trash. Jeff laughs at my small feet and tiny toes. He claims my toes do not touch the ground, but I know better; they certainly get dirty when I’m running around without socks and shoes.
Once a month, I make a visit to one of my favorite nail salons for a pedicure. Through the years, I’ve developed thick calluses from going barefoot. Pedicurists are very special people. They willingly scrub and massage sore and swollen feet, removing the dirt that has embedded itself inside the tough, leathery skin, moisturizing all the rough edges with lotions and crèmes that make your feet feel brand new. It is a treasured gift for those who enjoy a little barefoot living. If you’ve never experienced this type of foot washing, I would highly recommend it.
When Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, He did so much more than wash away the dirt that had caked around their sandals. This one act of love expressed so much more than words could ever say. In this culture, people got dirty every day outside on unpaved paths and in the fields. When they entered the home for the evening meal, their feet and hands were filthy. Customarily, a servant would greet each guest at the door, and offer them a towel and basin to wash their hands and feet. Jesus took it upon Himself to kneel down before His disciples, and quietly wash away the dirt that had collected on their feet. What kind of love is this?
Jesus is washing away more than just a little dirt. He literally softened the hardened hearts of His people, by removing the thick calluses of sin that kept them from experiencing a brand new life in Him. In this genuine act of humility and love, Christ completely cleansed and made whole broken and well-worn hearts; through His healing touch and power. All of us need to experience the healing touch of Jesus, not only on our dirty feet, but for every aspect of our lives.
It’s time to take your shoes off and experience a little barefoot living in the presence of the Lord. He will cleanse and make you whole today, if you will simply ask Him.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
Faith UMC -
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