Grateful Imitation

Just before the Passover feast, Jesus knew that his time had come to depart from this world to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now loved them to the very end. … Jesus knew that the Father had handed all things over to him, and that he had come from God and was going back to God. … Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet!” Jesus replied, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” … I have given you an example—you should do just as I have done for you. John 13:1-17

You dined with confidence, relaxed and sure;
You sensed the Father’s providential care,
Aware your mission’s goal would be secure
And grace for service would be there to spare.
Without a deprecating thought you rose
To teach your friends, through one last loving act,
That godly service keeps us on our toes,
And keeps the bond that binds our hearts intact.
For those who serve are blessed with those in need
As each encounters God’s sufficient grace;
One heart is cleansed of fearfulness and greed,
The other of the fear of losing face.
O Teacher true and Lord of Life above,
We give our thanks with hearts cleansed by your love.