Humility in service

Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet John 13: 1-5
"It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him."

We were at Peacehaven Nursing Home this morning and once again witnessed the caring and compassionate ministry of the nurses, therapists and other staff. There are the other support staff working in the office, manning the reception desk of cooking in the kitchen.Perhaps I may liken the Home to a big beehive, each bee performing a certain function and all working for the same purpose and towards the same end. Our staff are following the footsteps of our Lord in caring for suffering humanity.

My mind went to the ministry of our Lord, healing the sick, comforting the broken hearted. He knew His days on earth were numbered.

Shortly before His death, He had his last meal with His disciples. What a beautiful statement "Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end." He loved them to the highest degree, to the very limit, extremely, to the very end. John would have us see that wonderful example of humble service our Lord gave before His departure for heaven.

I've been thinking about this beautiful song written by Bramwell Coles.

How can I better serve thee, Lord,
Thou who hast done so much for me?
Faltering and weak my labor has been;
O that my life may tell for thee!

Chorus
Here at the cross in this sacred hour,
Here at the source of reviving power,
Helpless indeed, I come with my need;
Lord, for thy service, fit me I plead.2.

Dull are my ears to hear thy voice,
Slow are my hands to work for thee,
Loath are my feet to conquer the steeps
That lead me to my Calvary.

Strength for my weakness, Lord, impart;
Sight for my blindness give to me;
Faith for my doubtings, Lord, I would crave,
That I may serve thee worthily.