WASHING OF FEET By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
John 13:14 – "So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet."
Introduction
As we enter a new season in God’s plan, it is truly remarkable to live our lives in His light. When the truth comes to us, do not despise it. Instead, recognize that not only is your life at risk, but the lives of others are at risk as well. We are called to carry each other's burdens, to encourage one another, and to grow together in His grace.
1. Carrying Each Other’s Burdens
Scripture Reference: Galatians 6:2
"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."
We are urged to take care of one another, encouraging each other toward the goal. Do not act like the world, seeking to divide and destroy. Instead, help one another and build each other up. Encourage one another so we can reach our divine purpose.
2. Humbling Ourselves and Washing Feet
Scripture Reference: John 13:14
"If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet."
Jesus, the Master and Teacher, humbled Himself to wash the feet of His disciples. This act of humility is a model for us. We are called not to show favoritism, but to serve one another in love, even the poorest among us. When you serve with humility, you show the love of Christ, and He will bless you with His presence.
3. Reaching Out to the Lost and Vulnerable
Scripture Reference: Matthew 25:40
"The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'"
We are reminded that God has children who have not received the protection and guidance we enjoy. If He sends them to us, we are to gather them and feed them, just as He has done for us. When you serve the least, you are serving Christ Himself.
4. Working Together for the Kingdom
Scripture Reference: Philippians 2:2-4
"Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
We are all part of the body of Christ, working together for His glory. God has yoked us together to pull the load and accomplish His purposes. Each one of us must contribute; do not wait for someone else to take action. Work diligently, and together we will fulfill His will.
5. Seeking God’s Guidance and Strength
Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:28-30
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
We are not to be lazy or idle in our service. We are to seek the Lord for strength and wisdom. He promises to help us carry the burdens and gives us rest as we serve. The Lord does not want us to be spiritually sluggish or self-centered. He wants us to live for others and serve His Kingdom faithfully.
6. Serving in the Body of Christ
Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 11:27-29
"Whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup."
When we partake of the Lord’s table, we must do so with reverence and understanding. We must not partake in an unworthy manner but examine ourselves. Serving Christ is not to be done flippantly. We must approach Him with humility and a heart that seeks to honor Him and His body.
Conclusion
We are all called to serve in humility and love, just as Christ has served us. As we carry each other’s burdens, wash one another’s feet, and work together for His Kingdom, we fulfill the law of Christ. Let us not be selfish or lazy, but rather work diligently for His glory. May we serve in love and humility, knowing that in doing so, we are serving Christ Himself.
