Dirty Feet

I have never been a big fan of foot washing; I wash my own feet of course but it's when people follow the example of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples when I get a little uncomfortable. I never knew why I felt like this until I heard our two sermons this Sunday on John 13:1-17, the sermons were on service and both mentioned the signifance of the guest of honour, the master, Jesus doing what the least honourable person, probably a servant, would have done. So when we foot wash following Jesus's example are we in danger of putting ourselves in the place of the guest of honour, the master? Are we elevating our own position in order that we may demonstrate our own humility? Is this an act of service or self-righteous service? Whilst I guess most people have the right motive in mind when we do this it does make me think and conclude with the answer; if we want to demonstrate humility in service let's not do something symbolic, let's do something that actually serves others.