In my previous blog, I was describing the Lenten arrangement that the Environmental Committee has been constructing in our church.  Bit by bit, things have been added to it.  It still conveys the image of simplicity and starkness, but there is a richness to it that accompanies the imagery.

Recently, a large pottery vase or jug has been added.  I think its purpose is being satisfied---it is making me think!  Why the large, earthen-colored jug next to the cross and the cacti?  Unraveling the symbolism of an object is like interpreting an e.e. cummings poem.  You love going over it repeatedly, its words rolling over your tongue.  However, you are still not sure what it actually means.  Well, looking at the jug makes thoughts do somersaults in my mind.  Once one “rolls” in, another follows it.

While looking at the jug, I am reminded of a jug Jesus might have used the night of the Last Supper.  It had to be quite large in order to hold the water necessary to wash the feet of the disciples.  The Lord was kneeling with a towel wrapped around his waist holding the jug of water ready to perform this act of humility and love.  When the Lord was done, he said to the disciples, “Do you realize what I have done for you?  You call me ‘teacher’ and ‘master,’ and rightly so, for indeed I am.  If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet.  I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.”  (John 13:12-15)

We cannot go around washing people’s feet on a daily basis, can we?  If we tried to do such a thing, our mental stability might be in question.  We would find ourselves on YouTube very quickly, I’m guessing.  So, how are we to interpret this lesson?  Jesus is telling us that we must all be servants to one another.  We must humble ourselves enough to provide whatever service is needed by our sisters and brothers.  Let us not overlook even the smallest deed!

We should keep the words of Donna McGargill’s song in our minds to help us with this pursuit:  “What do you want of me, Lord?  Where do you want me to serve you?  Where can I sing your praises?  I am your song.”  Let us not only sing this song but live out its message.