This scripture for today reminded me of the many years we sang it with the littles at church. It was standard Pre-K to 2nd grade singing and we were blessed by the many times the 1st-6th graders joined in. It is very Jewish sounding in its rhythm and tone. "We Have a King" is one "Earworm" loves to sing over and over.
I think my favorite verse is:
"We have a King with a bowl and towel. We have a King with a bowl and towel We have a King with a bowl and towel... Servant King is Jesus." (It is actually the same tune as "What do do you do with a drunken sailor... early in the morning)
Our church has held on to foot washing as a tradition. It seemed so strange to me in the beginning. But then, after sharing it with the children, it has become dear to my heart. My dear friend Julie and I have practiced it on Palm Sunday for many years, with only a few missed years. We play the roles of Mary and Martha. It helps us explain that Jesus is our Servant King.
Children teach us far more than we teach them. The first time, it was as strange to the children as it was to me. But we discovered together the delight in humbly serving another "family" member.
There was no pressure. Any one could pass, but most didn't. One year, they asked if they could wash each other's feet, too. It is a forever memory. Their enthusiasm and hearts to serve are beautiful.
I have been delighted to see foot washing show up at weddings in recent years. Marriage is a commitment to washing another's feet symbolically... and occasionally literally. It was what Jesus did for the disciples at that final dinner before the garden prayers, the betrayal, the beatings, and then the cross. He endured it all so that we could be ransomed and free.
"For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” -Mark 10:45
It is a love like no other.
Today, I am grateful for a servant King.
No comments:
Post a Comment