Serving Others

Today’s reading is out of John 13:4-5 and 12-17. Begin today’s devotion by reading these passages in your Bible.

Jesus didn’t just tell people how important it is to serve others, he modeled it first. In fact, at the time, everyone expected Jesus to overthrow the Roman government and establish a physical kingdom on earth. Instead, Jesus came to establish His kingdom within people’s hearts. Jesus knew He could rule over everyone because, after all, He was God. But rather, He chose to serve humankind. In God’s Kingdom we learn that true leadership is servant leadership. Let’s read again this beautiful story of Jesus’ servanthood and reflect on what it means for our lives.

John 13:4-5, 12-17 4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

Reflect

  1. Washing guests’ feet as they arrived was a job set aside for the lowliest of slaves. With that in mind, why do you think Jesus chose to model this? How does this impact your view of God?
  2. What do you think Jesus was wanting to teach His disciples about leadership?
  3. Serving those you consider to be beneath you seems counter-cultural. Yet some of the best leaders choose to lead this way. Why is serving others so important and powerful?
  4. Read verse 17 again. Jesus modeled serving, and now passes it on to us. What does it look like to serve others at home? Work? Community?

Act

  • Here are some ways to practice servant leadership.
  • Show interest in others by asking questions about their lives.
  • Accept small irritations with good humor.
  • Find ways to acknowledge others and make them shine.
  • Be courteous and delicate, even when being provoked.
  • Which of these can you implement more effectively in your circles of influence? Add your own and practice serving others in that way.

Pray

Jesus, give me opportunities to serve people throughout my day. I know that when I serve others, they get to experience Your love, grace, and joy. I pray people would truly see You through me! Amen.