David sat down in a metal chair to put his socks and shoes back on after completing the baptisms.

Paulina made her way across the yard, carrying a pail of water, a towel draped over one arm. Kneeling before David, she gently washed his feet, then dried them, and put his socks and shoes on her friend. Once she had finished, she glanced up at him with a smile, and departed.

Once the baptisms were finished, the children were allowed to play in the pool. Shouts of glee and delight filled our ears, as they splashed and played in the water. But my mind was not on the joy of the children.

My mind was occupied with what I had just witnessed. God had allowed me to experience a holy moment. He showed me what true meekness looks like by observing Paulina’s actions. I sensed she had humility, and was strong in her Christian faith.

Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.

~John 13:14 NIV

David Phelps had led the missionary team from Georgia to Reynosa, Mexico, where we ministered at Maranatha Evangelista, the church where Daniel and Adamina Guerra pastored. That particular day, a baptism service had been held in a small, private swimming pool. Paulina had been the only adult baptized along with the fourteen children. David and team member, Pastor Wes Moye, had assisted Pastor Daniel.

Paulina’s act of mercy was the result of her love for God and her love for David, who had ministered among the people of Maranatha twice a year for a long time.

In John 13, we read about Jesus washing His disciples’ feet. Why did He do this? Jesus used foot washing as an example of service to others. Although He was their Master, He did not hesitate to kneel before them in this act of service. He was not only showing His disciples what true service to others looked like, He was teaching those of us who were to come later.

In like manner, Paulina’s kind act of service to David left an everlasting impression on me. She wasn’t trying to show off. Her humble act of kindness was just that.

God can be found in ordinary places. We just have to keep our eyes open.

In what other ways can you live out the kindness of Jesus?

Father God, in the name of Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit, fill my heart with love for others.

Amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2021: The Foot Washing: Evelyn Mason Wells: All Rights Reserved