The Way of the Towel

On the night before He died, Jesus did something that shocked His disciples. He got up from the meal, wrapped a towel around His waist, poured water into a basin, and began to wash their feet.

In that culture, washing feet was a servant's job. Dusty roads. Dirty sandals. It was work nobody wanted.

Peter objected. Jesus insisted. Then He explained: "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you" (John 13:15).

Earlier, Jesus had corrected His disciples when they argued about who was greatest. The rulers of this world lord it over people, He said, but it must not be that way among you. Whoever wants to become great must be a servant. Even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.

This is the heart of Christian leadership. Leaders in God's kingdom do not climb over people. They kneel down for them.

Servant leadership is not weakness. Jesus was fully in charge in that room. He knew exactly who He was. Because He was secure in His identity, He was free to serve.

That is true for you too. You belong to God. You do not need to prove yourself. So you are free to pick up the towel.

Reflect

Where is one place this week where you could serve someone in a way that costs you something?

Pray

Jesus, You knelt down and washed feet. You gave Your life for me. Make me a servant like You. Free me from needing to be first, and help me find joy in serving others. Amen.

Today's Scripture (NIV)

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