Has anyone ever washed your feet? No doubt your parents may have when you were a baby but I mean in your more grown up state. To be literal, I mean foot washing like what Jesus did.
I don't recall anyone ever washing mine. It would feel weird to me, I think. Especially since I can't stand anyone messing with my feet, unless of course, it's for reflexology.
Once upon a time at a gathering of sisters who had created a sort of indoor fun fair there was such opportunity. There was a table for nail polishing, a photo booth with dress-up props, and more. Among the stations that seemed to be rather popular, was the reflexology corner.
It was quite an experience to be the 'reflexologist'-of-the day. I hadn't had any formal training at all. I was just copying what I'd had done for me by professionals.
This was just 'for fun' but the reactions of the ladies who came for their foot rub was so touching. There was actually someone who would touch their feet that were in whatever state they were at the time! They were touched in their hearts by it. It turned out to be quite one of the best times. The ladies had good chats, not gossipy ones but that which showed genuine camaraderie.
It could have been a time to pray for the one having their foot rub respectively but I'd lost the opportunity to 'wash their feet' in this way. It is a regret from that time. Hopefully, just the actions helped some one of them towards the Lord anyway.
So I think Simon Peter felt it was weird to have Jesus wash his and the other disciples' feet. I really get a kick out of what he says. It always makes me laugh.
"Simon Peter said to Him, "Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head" (John 13:9 ESV).
Peter had likely missed the point but I wonder if Jesus smiled in amusement. But He did graciously reply. Actually it was a very serious moment as there was a traitor in their midst. Yet Jesus had washed all of the twelve's feet.
I believe there are ways to wash peoples' feet even if it is not in the literal sense. To show hospitality to someone in need, to lend a helping hand here and there to fill in a gap and so on. No doubt you can think of countless ways and not expecting return favors.
When we show our humility, profound care and love for others, we are doing as Jesus would do. Jesus, our Master and Lord, set our example of "true fasting" and Christian living (see Isaiah 58:6-11). Let's treat one another similarly so that
"by this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another" said Jesus (John 13:35 ESV).
Let's do so in Jesus' name.
~ ERC October 2025 ~
Based on John 13:1-20, 35 and especially vs 9 ESV.
Sing, A New Commandment, along with Chet Valley Churches.
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