Communion
175
tender our hearts toward one another.—
The Review and Herald, May
31, 1898
.
Footwashing is meant to clear away the assumption that one
person is higher than another—The object of this service is to call
to mind the humility of our Lord, and the lessons He has given in
washing the feet of His disciples. There is in man a disposition to
esteem himself more highly than his brother, to work for himself, to
serve himself, to seek the highest place; and often evil-surmisings and
bitterness of spirit spring up over mere trifles. This ordinance preced-
ing the Lord’s Supper is to clear away these misunderstandings, to
bring man out of his selfishness, down from his stilts of self-exaltation,
to the humility of spirit that will lead him to wash his brother’s feet.
[171]
It is not in God’s plan that this should be deferred because some are
considered unworthy to engage in it. The Lord washed the feet of
Judas. He did not refuse him a place at the table, although He knew
that he would leave that table to act his part in the betrayal of his Lord.
It is not possible for human beings to tell who is worthy, and who is
not. They can not read the secrets of the soul. It is not for them to say,
I will not attend the ordinance if such a one is present to act a part. Nor
has God left it to man to say who shall present themselves on these
occasions.—
The Review and Herald, May 31, 1898
.
Footwashing should be introduced carefully to previously un-
informed people—Duties are laid down in God’s Word, the perfor-
mance of which will keep the people of God humble and separate
from the world, and from backsliding, like the nominal churches. The
washing of feet and partaking of the Lord’s supper should be more
frequently practiced. Jesus set us the example, and told us to do as
He had done. I saw that His example should be as exactly followed as
possible; yet brethren and sisters have not always moved as judiciously
as they should in washing feet, and confusion has been caused. It
should be introduced into new places with carefulness and wisdom,
especially where the people are not informed relative to the example
and teachings of our Lord on this point, and where they have prejudice
against it. Many honest souls, through the influence of former teachers
in whom they had confidence, are much prejudiced against this plain
duty, and the subject should be introduced to them in a proper time
and manner.—
Early Writings, 116
.