Mandatum (by Joy Cowley)

Jesus, I would like you to wash my feet.

I've come a long distance to ask you this,

although I've frequently gone from my house to yours

with my boxes of fragrant ointments and my tears,

sincerely believing that this was the best I could offer you,

that it was my love which mattered.

I was eager, but I didn't know much about discipleship

or the true nature of love; and you, always gentle,

never told me I was wrong, but patiently waited

for me to grow in understanding.

It has taken a long time, Lord,

but now I fling open the door of my house

and invite you in to cleanse my feet

of the dust of many wanderings.

i will not feel shame to have you kneel before me,

but will gladly receive the mastery of your love;

for in receiving I learn the truth of giving

and become your servant in being served.

Lord Jesus, please,

I would like you to wash my feet.