Recognizing Our Need to Give - Day 26

September 20, 2012

"When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them,  "Do you understand what I have done to you?  You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.  If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.  For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you."  John 13: 12-15

Although it seems clear that this passage has Jesus washing the feet of the apostles, it is not about that particular action.  It is a show of humility and a command to serve one another as Jesus has served them.  More importantly, I believe, is that genuine humility is a cure for selfishness, which in turn begets generosity.  We must not "store up treasures on earth,"  but be stewards of our blessing on earth and respond in humility and with generous hearts to the needs of others.  It is in giving of ourselves and our "wealth" that we truly follow Christ's command to "do just as I have done for you."  His entire ministry was about  healing the sick, comforting and helping athe poor and needy and praying for and with those who needed to know his grace and forgiveness.

Lord Jesus, please give us true humility so that we may use our gifts in service to others and to expand your ministry to all in need.  Let us be the church known for being open and loving to all, and a center for outreach to those experiencing the troubles and tribulations of life.  Amen

Author:  Jim Detzel