Tonight, we read of the famous story of Jesus washing the feet of the disciples in John 13. It has become the tradition of the parish for the celebrant to wash the feet of 12 parishers selected in advance. Most of them have been active in the parish for quite some time so that it is easier to contact them for the liturgy. So, every year, the congregation watch the drama of feet washing. They remain spectators. This year, Fr. Martin Ip was the chief celebrant. He is young and had just been consecrated last year. He has other ideas. Instead of selecting 12 people in advance, he, together with the other co-celebrants, priests and perpetual deacon, went into the congregation and invited them to be washed on the spot. The congregation was caught unprepared. 17 parishers were washed, not 12. It is a good beginning. I hope one day, the Supervisor has the chance to wash the feet of the teachers of the school. Then, Jesus' teaching would be more manifest.
If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.
For I have given you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you (John 13:14-15).
John does not record the institution of the Holy Eucharist in his Last Supper story. The Holy Eucharist is a sacrament of love. The washing of each other's feet is an act of love. So, John left us a more vivid narrative of this sacrament of love. It is not far off to witness this act of love. Fr. Martin reminded us how, when a mother changes the soiled napkin of a baby, we witness Jesus' washing the feet of the disciples, Jesus' love, how Jesus loves us to the end (John 13:1).
My Lord, You do not simply wash our feet. You love us to the cross, to Your very end. Your love towers over us. Yet, You allow us to freely reject You, deny You. How long can we turn a blind eye to Your mercy? I surrender. Make me Your prisoner, that I may not depart from You. Amen.
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