Rev. Matt Holst
Each year at ECA we observe what has become known as Impact Day. This is a day that we as a school (the Secondary Campus) set aside to get out of the classroom in order to serve others in our community. Students, staff and faculty get the privilege of serving churches, organizations, families and even the community as a whole (for instance, trail reclamation at Garden of the Gods). Why do we do this? It’s simple, really. We serve because Jesus first served us.
In one of Jesus’ last moments with His disciples, knowing that he was facing betrayal, suffering and death, our Lord still took it upon Himself to teach His followers both in word and in deeds. John describes it well: “He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him” (John 13:4-5). Jesus, the very Son of God, not only dressed the part of a servant, but did something that only the lowliest member of the household would do: he washed the feet of others.
Why did Jesus do this? Jesus stated: “For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you” (vs. 15). In this act of humble service, Jesus showed his disciples, and by extension us, what life in the Kingdom of God is supposed to look like. We are supposed to serve others, even when that service gets us dirty or uncomfortable, because that is what Jesus did for us. The washing of the Disciples’ feet was more than just a gesture of hospitality. It pointed to what Jesus came to do. “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).
When we serve, it is my hope that all who are involved: from the students who have to serve; the teachers who have to lead groups (kudos to our part-time teachers who still help!); parents who drive and even assist on the job; that all will, perhaps over time, see this as more than just helping others in need (and that is incredibly important), but will see this day as a reminder that Jesus left heaven, took on the limitations of flesh, humbled himself even unto death and was buried in the tomb FOR US! But he didn’t stay there. He rose from the dead, giving all who trust in him that same hope. And all of that because Jesus came to seek and to save the lost.
It is my hope that Impact Day can play a role in reminding all of us that we serve others because Jesus first served us.
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