For Whom We Serve

Charley, a new retiree-greeter at Wal-Mart, just couldn't seem to get to work on time. Every day he was 5, 10, 15 minutes late...but he was a good worker--really tidy, clean-shaven, sharp-minded, a real credit to the company and obviously was good at demonstrating their "Older Person Friendly" policies.

One day, the boss called him into the office for a talk. "Charley, I have to tell you: I like your work ethic, you do a bang up job; but your being late so often is quite bothersome." "Yes, I know boss, and I am working on it."

''Well good, you are a team player. That's what I like to hear. It's odd, though--your coming in late. I know you're retired from the Armed Forces. What did they say if you came in late there?" 'They said, "Good morning, Admiral, can I get you coffee, sir?'''

Remember when Jesus washed his disciples’ feet in John 13? It happened just before the Passover Feast. They had to be just a little confused when he got up from his meal; took some of his outer garments off; wrapped a towel around his waist; poured water into a basin and began washing and drying their feet.

I can just picture in my mind the expressions on all of their faces as their leader, Jesus, calmly proceeded to do this. But, it must have seemed odd enough in that it intensified Simon Peter’s curiosity. In fact, he was the only one with enough curiosity (and courage) to ask Jesus, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” (John 13:6)

Now to put this all into perspective you have to realize that the washing of the feet was an eastern duty of hospitality made necessary by the hot, dusty climate. None of the apostles volunteered to do this because it was usually performed by a servant. Therefore, Jesus took it upon himself to do this service.

Jesus did not go into one of his usual lectures with Simon Peter. He simply told him that he would not fully realize the reason for all of this at the present, but that it would become clear later on. Understandably, this whole episode might be somewhat difficult for a few of us to wrap our hands around. Here we have Jesus Christ on his hands and knees washing and drying the feet of his disciples as they sat there and, I am quite sure, watched in what must have been puzzled amazement!

But you see, isn't that the point? This was another example of how Jesus used simple, everyday things to teach a lesson. None of the disciples thought that they should lower themselves to do this menial task. But Jesus did! Yes, he was their leader, but he did not think of himself so superior that he was above serving others himself. John 13: 12-17

That was Jesus' way! As he said in verse 16, "I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him." Imagine putting others needs ahead of your own? What an awesome concept! I think more of us should try applying this simple concept in today's world. I think Simon Peter would be proud, don't you?

Let's pray:

Jesus, I pray that I will never think of myself so much better than others that I would not pray, help, or comfort them when I have the opportunity to do so.

As you so humbly taught us, we are never greater than the One who made all of this possible. When we serve others, we are truly exemplifying your teachings and spirit. May we always carry your light within us in everything we do. Amen.

Have a blessed day!

-Debi Lynn