The Ordinance of Humility
By H. H. VOTAW
DURING the time that we labored in the Indian Empire, we repeatedly noticed that when various doctrines were presented and arguments adduced in their favor, we were met with argument in return, but when we spoke of the rite of feet washing, we were almost invariably met with ridicule. At times we were disturbed by the fact that we were unable to offer any argument in support of this ceremony besides that found in the terse account given by the apostle John. On one occasion our hearts were much cheered by an incident that occurred while we were celebrating the ordinance of humility. There was present a Burmese man who had never seen the service performed. He was new to our faith. His heart was aglow with the love of the message, and he was rejoicing in the new-found treasure of the knowledge of the Lord’s return. As he watched the brethren kneeling at one another’s feet, gravity amounting almost to solemnity, and holy joy, seemed to be seeking expression in his countenance. Suddenly he cried, “O, if my people could only see such love as this, they would all become Christians!” We thanked the Lord for the lesson. We realized afresh that his ways are all good and always best. Ever since that day it has been easier to obey God and leave the consequences in his hands.