Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Life of Service

The Servant Susan Gavatos

Yesterday a dedicated team worked for hours in our church hall. They do this most Tuesdays of the month and have been at it for many years. Their task is not glamorous. Seniors show up to have their feet attended at the Foot Clinic. Getting older is not for sissys and among the many parts that wear out with age are feet. The team is a cheerful, hard-working bunch and while their isn't much recognition for their effort it makes a world of difference for the recipients of their care. The folk arrive with "dogs barking" and leave in better shape.

Tomorrow is Maundy Thursday and we will have a service in the evening. I will wash the feet of a couple of "ringers," people chosen for this ritual which reminds us of Jesus' startling act of service during the Last Supper.

I always find this meaningful, but of course it is orchestrated. It seems to me that the Foot Clinic is a living, breathing example of compassionate service. The hymn Jesu, Jesu says it all:
Jesu, Jesu,
Fill us with Your love,
show us how to serve
The neighbours we have from You.
Kneels at the feet of his friends,
Silently washes their feet,
Master who acts as a slave to them.

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