THE communion service together with the ordinance of foot washing should be to the church a season of greatest spiritual refreshing. Although ordinarily conducted by an ordained minister, the ordained local elder is also qualified to lead out. Since, in the absence of the minister, this sometimes becomes his responsibility it is vital that he understand the true significance of these services, and, together with the deacons, see that they are conducted in a way that will truly fulfill their purpose.
Unfortunately, there are those who intentionally absent themselves from these blessed occasions. The attendance is all too frequently less than on other Sabbaths. This may be a symptom of spiritual dis ease. It may also be partly because the members have not been thoroughly enough informed as to the true significance and apprised of the great spiritual blessings these services offer.
Occasionally a sermon on the preceding Sabbath might profitably be devoted to this subject. Also, to encourage good attendance these quarterly services should be protected from conflicts of interest that sometimes develop (vacation weekends, Pathfinder or other outings, school functions that would take either teachers or students away, et cetera). There have been times when not even the essential number of deacons could be present to tend their duties. Although usually occurring on the same Sabbath of the quarter, occasional adjustments may be necessary to make it possible for the largest number possible to participate.
The date for these services should be announced at least two weeks in advance. On the Sabbath preceding the occasion the importance of the coming service should be emphasized and the members urged to pray during the week that the Lord will prepare their hearts for the spiritual blessings to come. This should be a week of heart preparation, a period offering special encouragement for the confession and forsaking of sin. The local elder will have a special concern, not only for his own spiritual condition but for that of the congregation. This concern should lead him to seek out those who would normally absent themselves. Let them know that they have been missed in the past and encourage their participation. Where there are problems, direct the members to Jesus, whose grace is sufficient for every need. The spirit will be that of concern and sincere helpfulness. Properly entered into, each communion Sabbath can be a time of revival and reformation.
The Ordinance of Foot Washing
The ordinance of foot washing was instituted by our Lord to aid in the spiritual preparation for the communion service. This is a special occasion for self-examination, for beginning again. It is a lesser baptism, a time for the renewal of the baptismal vows. How easily we slip back into old habits, or become careless in regard to daily devotions or Christian witness. We need periodically to examine ourselves to make certain that we are growing in grace.
As fellow-believers wash one another's feet they draw together in Christian love, pride is laid low, and true humility prevails. In this service as at no other time the true relationship we should have to one another and to our heavenly Father is clearly demonstrated. Whether high or low, rich or poor, black or white, servant or master, uneducated or scholarly, we are all equal before God, all sinners saved by grace with nothing to commend ourselves to Him but our great need.
A Lesson in Humility
My first pastorate was in San Pedro, California, on the shores of Los Angeles Harbor. This was during the closing days of World War II and this modest little church was frequently host to Seventh-day Adventist servicemen stationed at nearby Fort MacArthur. The communion Sabbaths were always special occasions, usually involving several of these young men from various parts of our nation. One such occasion, however, was particularly significant. The men present for the foot-washing service will long remember the Army major stooping to his knees and washing the feet of a private under his command.
A certain man with whom I was studying had begun to attend the church on the Sabbath and was already contemplating baptism. Then came the communion Sabbath. During the week I explained the ordinance of foot washing to him. His reaction was quite unfavorable. It seemed so crude, so unbecoming that he questioned whether he could ever bring himself to participate in such a service. I suggested that he attend and observe. This he finally agreed to do. After the service he approached me with an appreciative smile. "Now I understand," he said. "This was one of the most meaningful services I have ever witnessed." Needless to say he was soon baptized and to him the quarterly services were always anticipated with a special sense of appreciation.
Thorough Preparation
The service of foot washing, like that which follows, requires thorough preparation. Everything associated with it should be done "decently and in order." The deacons and deaconesses must be well in formed of their duties and instructed as to how they can be most graciously executed. The water, basins, and towels should be neatly laid out. Those called upon to serve should be at their post and eager to be as helpful as possible.
The minister and elders will be especially observant of guests or any retiring individuals who might be left without partners. Special note should also be taken of the children prepared to participate, lest they be overlooked. An atmosphere of true fellowship should prevail. This will often find expression in song. The one to lead out should be selected in advance. The singing will help to draw hearts together, it will also discourage irrelevant conversation.
Following the service the utensils and towels should be carefully handled, cleaned, and stored for future usage. All should be done with a true sense of the sacredness of the service involved.
As everything possible is done to give the ordinance of foot washing its proper place and meaning in the church, its members will reap richly in spiritual re wards.
MY PRAYER: Dear Father, I am grateful for the precious example of Thy Son, Jesus, who so humbled Himself as to wash the feet of His disciples. Grant that the same spirit may rest in my heart, and may my greatest desire be also to serve. Bless our church and guide us in the plans for these sacred services that they may become increasingly meaningful, resulting in true spiritual renewal and Christian growth. In Jesus' name. Amen.
