I am happy to report that last night was my last creepy night in the church. I put on the second coat of green, tried to fix the "grass" in some places and put up some of the decorations I bought at the dollar store. Yesterday I bought block letters made out of wood to spell 'nursery'; hopefully we can mount them somehow outside the room so that it's clearly visible to everyone. I took some more photos but I'd rather wait until the floors have been cleaned and everything is in its place before the grand reveal to you all. I feel good about pushing for the nursery and making it become a reality; not just in theory, but also physically making it become a reality.
Tomorrow is Holy Thursday, when we celebrate Jesus' last supper with his disciples before his crucifixion. It's when the institution of the priesthood began and also when the Eucharist began (but not brought to fruition until his death and resurrection). But I think what I like most about Holy Thursday is the washing of the feet.
Every year we read how Jesus washed the feet of all his disciples, a common chore when you wear sandals and your feet get dirty and dusty. It was something you did when you entered someone's home. But this was something normally reserved for servants to do for you. It caused quite a commotion when Jesus insisted on doing it himself for everyone. His followers believed him to be the Messiah, the anointed one. He was their teacher, their rabbi. It astounded them to see Jesus on his knees washing their grubby feet; it probably also made them feel uncomfortable. "No really, Jesus, it's all right. I can do that." But he insisted, to set an example. No one is above serving others. Serve others but also learn to accept help/service in turn. (Note I didn't write 'in return'. This is something I often remind myself: I do not do things for others to receive something in return. I do not buy gifts for someone because they bought me one or because I'm expecting they will buy me one in return. I did not paint the nursery because I'm expecting a reward in return.)
It all comes down to love. Whether that be finding patience with those who tend to ignite your temper or washing someone's feet. Be loved. Whether that be swallowing your pride and asking and accepting help or allowing someone to get down on their knees to wash your feet.
Always remember: God loves you -- so much that he would wash your grubby feet!
i want to see photos!!
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