ABOUT A YEAR AGO, I attended a Bible conference where participants washed one another's feet as a reenactment of Jesus washing his disciples' feet (see John 13:4–15). I chose not to attend, as the idea of a stranger touching my feet made me uncomfortable, but those who did participate were deeply moved on a spiritual level. I found myself wishing I had participated. It made me realize how often we avoid an opportunity to heal or to be healed because of a false sense of pride or inadequacy. This spurred me to do more Biblical research on the concept of "feet" and the significance of foot washing in relation to the healing practice of Christian Science.
I've always thought of "feet" as one's spiritual foundation, but as I looked at the many metaphorical references to feet in the Bible, I discovered feet can also represent a living, moving, active foundation. To me, this represents the activity of the Christ—the ever-appearing unity of man with his infinite source, God—in my life.
One of my favorite Bible quotes is: "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!" (Isa. 52:7). What a wonderful Biblical promise and direction. I find it interesting that the prophet chose "feet" as the basis of this spiritual metaphor, but when you stop to think that our feet are foundational for movement of all sorts—running, jumping, dancing, walking—it makes sense. If the spiritual basis from which we operate is pure and holy, our progress toward salvation—health and freedom—is assured.
