I have washed feet before. Many times actually. The feet of those in my college ministry, high school youth group, and the youth group I worked with in college. I have done feet washing in several states, the Bahamas, and Costa Rica. But today was different and one of the most memorable.
August was Women’s Appreciation month in Lesotho. Women just got rights in this country about 50 years ago. I was a part of a celebration to honor the women and the impact they have made in each other’s lives. There was music, dancing and fellowship. My team decided that we wanted to honor and bless the women of the ministry we have been working with. We agreed to do pedicures for the house moms and the kids.
There were 4 washing stations and 4 painting stations. We were prepared with soapy water, towels, lotion, scrubbers, manicure sets, nail polish, and designer polish. Everything was ready to pretty up some toes!
As the Mom and kids gathered eagerly around for their turn, we began to wash, pray, and talk with the kids individually. They soaked up the one on one time. They giggled at being ticked on the feet. Love and joy filled the atmosphere. God was there.
We then started to paint their nails. They choose their colors and designs and they waited patiently as we tried our best to be professionals. As soon as they were finished, they grabbed the polish out of our hands and started on our nails. I ended up with 4 coats, all different colors, and a poka-dot design on top.
“I have set you as an example that you should do as I have done for you.”John 13:15
The kids have stolen my heart. They have grasped what it means to take the example of serving a neighbor. I pray that I would have the heart of Christ towards them and everyone I meet.
“Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” John 13:1
May the people you and I meet know they are loved far beyond what we could ever tell or show them.
Love from the other side of the globe,
-Kimmy
