Not exactly the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a Valentines post. This Valentines was one for the books, we were absolutely spoiled by our amazing Z Squad men. The night before, we were informed that the men would be taking over kitchen and water duty for the entire day. As the ladies gathered in the Bible school waiting for breakfast the men set the tone for the day by sweetly informing us we are the crowns of life and would be served all day; this included having all of our meals hand delivered to us and dishes picked up in the same manner. One sir emphasized how serious they were by stating “and if any of you even try to bring dishes to the kitchen I will punch you in the face”. Our regular duties were held off for the day and we were able to pour into each other as well as speak truth about insecurities or challenges women too often face.
After lunch we were allowed to leave the ministry site but were asked to return by 4:30 because the men had something planned. We anxiously awaited and giggled like little school girls watching through the window as the men made final preparations for the surprise routine. Many of us expected a dance or a boy band reenactment but they blew us away by providing us with the 2014 Winter Olympics. We had a wonderful and relaxing day but as the evening continued so did the surprises. Following dinner we were asked to sit in a circle with our eyes closed. We opened them to find hand written valentine cards and a tower of treats in the center. What more could a girl want. Grab your tissues because your heart may just melt at how beautifully the night ended.
After we read our valentines and devoured our chocolates we were told there was one last thing that was a bit more serious. We were asked to sit quietly with our eyes closed and to trust them. Before I knew it my hand was grabbed and I was helped up and turned around to buckets of water where our men would one by one wash our filthy, stinky, mosquito bite infested feet. We were speechless and so gently cared for. Once every girls’ feet were cleaned, hearts were full and eyes were filled with tears, the men concluded the day telling us they had thoughtfully and seriously made a covenant with the Lord to serve and protect every single one of the Z Squad women this year. I am so excited and thankful to be serving alongside such incredible men this next year.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
John 13:34-35
