The servants did it at the entry door

they washed your feet, (like taking off your shoes)

a groveling, a submission - who would choose?

A pleading place for beggar or for whore

At the meal, Jesus did precisely that;

defined the way they should relate always;

revealed the shape of love, the shape of praise,

the place of honour kneeling on the mat.

Love is a physical, a touching, deed

more outward than intentionality,

an act more wise than rationality

reaching deep where dwells the festering need

Extreme love’s gesture, a demanding creed

alone unlocks the gate, the prisoner freed.