Jesus washed their feet and put on His coat. Then He sat down again and said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? [John 12:12 (NLV)]
My husband had an elderly aunt who clipped recipes continually and often sent them out to family. Her kitchen was filled with assorted recipes, recipe books and a beautiful array of pots, pans and other cooking utensils. The kitchen and equipment, however, were in pristine condition because they’d never been used. Although she read recipes, she rarely stepped into the kitchen and never cooked. Prayer without action is a bit like my husband’s aunt reading recipes and never doing anything with them. We can sit in our comfy chairs and pray about all sorts of things but never get up to do anything about our concerns. Prayer and action, however, are inseparable. If we care enough to pray about it, we should care enough to do something about it. My husband’s aunt didn’t have to become a gourmet chef like Mario Batali or Julia Child but she could have tried cooking something. We’re not necessarily called to become Mother Teresa or David Livingstone, but God expects us to do for others what He has done for us.
Today women, men and children in more than 170 countries will celebrate the World Day of Prayer. The motto of the World Day of Prayer organization is “Informed Prayer & Prayerful Action.” Materials for today’s celebration, prepared by the WDP Committee of The Bahamas, ask us to consider Jesus’ words to the disciples after washing their feet: “Do you understand what I have done for you?” The women of The Bahamas describe Jesus’ action as an act of “radical love.” They point out that such radical love comes from humility, compassion and commitment. God’s radical love is not inert and unmoving; it is dynamic. God’s radical love is not self-centered; it is selfless. God’s radical love reaches out and draws others in. God’s radical love gets off its knees and takes action.
The women of The Bahamas call for prayers and action regarding issues of special concern to them: domestic abuse, HIV/AIDS, women in the workplace, the environment, and immigrant and migrant workers. There is no shortage of issues that beg for prayer and action. Join with our sisters (and brothers) in Christ in both prayer and efforts toward justice, peace, healing and wholeness. Let us always remember Jesus’ radical act of love and follow his example.
We exalt your name for every opportunity given to us to minister to the poor and to wash the feet of the weary. …Open our eyes to those who are in need of a gentle touch, a listening ear, a word of comfort or a healing presence. Jesus, we are amazed by you. How deep and radical is your love for us! Teach us how to be more like you, and to model your radical love and gracious hospitality to all of your children. Amen. [From World Day of Prayer 2015]
Christ alone can save the world, but Christ cannot save the world alone. [David Livingstone]
Devotions of the Heart 