Jill Peterson

John 13:14-15

Wednesday, March 14

It was 1994, and I was spending three weeks in a mountainous jungle village, Charuru, Kenya. The villagers needed volunteers to help build their health clinic.

John 13:14-15 tells about Jesus humbly washing the disciple's feet. In doing this, he shows his unconditional love and provides an example for them. I had no idea that these verses would impact me in Kenya.

One night our lantern was missing. Placing my dinner dishes into the shadowed dishpan, my foot slipped over the 16-inch high ledge. I fell, my ankle twisting as I landed upon it. In pain, I learned that I would be waiting three days until the tea truck arrived, my transport to medical help.

Word spread that I had been injured. An elderly man stopped by and asked, "Um, where is one leg?" I hopped to my door where he reached for my hand saying, "Pole sana," which meant that he was sorry for my misfortune. Later, nine women came to visit and pray. Before leaving, each woman caressed my hand while saying comforting words.

I went to Kenya to serve, but I received a blessing and treasure far greater than I ever expected. They fully demonstrated Christ's love and service; my feet were washed.

Questions for reflection:

• How have you been served by people you thought you were serving?
• How can you put into practice what Jesus has shown in John 13:14-15?

Prayer:

Gracious God, thank you for showing us how to love and serve one another. Amen