An Act of Giving

Having loved His own who were in the world, He now showed them the full extent of His love...so He got up from the meal, took off His outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around His waist. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash His disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. John 13:1b, 4-5 (KJV)

Every evening we invited my mother to have coffee with us after supper. When we were through, she always went to the sink and began washing dishes. I told her she didn't have to wash my dishes, that I could do them.

"I know you can," she said, "but I want to. I like doing dishes. I know I can't help you with much, but I am a good dish washer. It's the least I can do for you." I could not take that satisfaction away from her.

I watched as she did one dish at a time, putting each into the sink to drain. It made me think about what Jesus did when He washed the disciples' feet in the upper room before the last supper. He demonstrated humble servitude and complete love. Mother couldn't do much to help herself or me, but she could wash the dishes. It was her act of gratitude and humility---her act of love for me. Every time I do my dinner dishes, I remember my mother's love.

Father, may all of Your children follow the example of Jesus and thank Him for His act of love from the cross. Amen

(c) 2012 E. Bonnie Ryan