
The Savior of the world proved Himself to be the greatest servant of all time. The story is familiar to many. When the disciples booked an upper room for their supper, they forgot to book a servant to wash dirty feet at the door, as per custom. Yet when the disciples realized the servant was missing, none of them volunteered for the job. Instead, they argued over who was the greatest. When Jesus saw this, he decided use the opportunity to present an object lesson. After supper Jesus stripped down to a small piece of cloth around his waist, even looking the part of the servant.
The he took a basin of water and a towel and began washing the feet of His disciples. As he interacted with them several lessons about servant hood became clear. Servant leaders are motivated by love to serve others. Jesus’ love was undeserved, unending, unconditional and unselfish. Love made him serve. Servant leaders possess a security that allows them to serve others. The insecure are into titles; the secure are into towels. Jesus’ security enables him to both stoop and stretch. Servant leaders initiate servant ministry to others. Jesus didn’t wait for someone to clarify protocol, he saw a need and met it. Servant leaders receive servant ministry from others. A servant’s heart exposes pride in others.
Peter had a hard time letting Jesus serve him. A servant leader teaches servant hood by example. Jesus let them know that if the Master washed their feet, they ought to imitate him. Servant leader live a blessed life. Jesus reminded his men that they were blessed if they obeyed him. We ought to do the same to imitate Jesus’ servant leadership example. We have to put others ahead of our agenda. Develop the confidence and security to take risks. Always look for a need and take initiative. Perform small acts anonymously. Learn to walk slowly through the crowd. By beginning our days reflecting on our love for others and develop a bias for action. There is a great reward for those who not only agree that humble service is Christ’s way, but also do it.