Feet

Jessi Stitt

Volunteer, North Carolina

  

Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.

~ John 13:14-15

  

I notice the feet around me all day. In Malawi, shoes are not a requirement. Many people don’t own shoes or only bring them out on special occasions. Shoes are worn until there is nothing left to keep them on feet. Mismatched shoes are worn. I’ve seen women walk with one shoe on and the other was being carried to make them last longer.

 

I have a thing about shoes. I don’t really like them (I’d rather be barefoot). My feet blister easily when enclosed. And they get too hot. So while I do own closed toed shoes, I don’t wear them. I am now almost 365 days a year in sport sandals (even in the snow).

 

After a day in the field, my feet are dusty to say the least. The dirt has been ground into them. When I take off my sandals, there are white lines where my straps have been. Looks like tan lines, but it isn’t. Washing my feet at the end of the day is such a great feeling. Soaping up and watching the dirt come off feels good. 

 

It makes me think of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet and how I, like Peter, wouldn’t want anyone else to wash my feet. Nor would I really want to wash anyone else’s. But I see the holiness in this act. It is a vulnerable place. Feet can be stinky. Feet can be strangely shaped. Feet can be ticklish. Feet can be tough. And feet always seem to be dirty.

 

Jesus says, “Those who have bathed need only wash their feet to be clean . . . I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

 

While I don’t go around actually washing feet, even at the well sites, I follow and try to serve others when I can.

Application Question: What can I do today to follow Jesus’ example and serve others?

 

Prayer: Almighty Creator, thank you for this day. For the example you gave us in Jesus. Thank you for the dirt under our nails and for the water to wash it away. Help us to remember your example and to go out and to serve our neighbors near and far with love in our hearts and joy on our lips. Amen

Any amount small or large will help to fund life giving gift. For $475 (an entire well) you will get a picture of the well and some of the villagers that you have sponsored. To donate go to mmmwater.org