Humble In Service

Of the many great lessons taught by the Bible, humility is one of the toughest yet most important. Certainly, John the Baptist was a great example of being humble in service. As he is baptizing several believers and being complimented by the masses, John speaks of the greatness of Jesus (3:22-30). Notice in verse 30 when he says, He must become greater, I must become less.

In preparation for His death on the cross, Jesus spent time in deep fellowship with His disciples. It is here, in the Book of John (13:1-17) we find Jesus purposely committing one of the most humbly acts of His day: foot washing. This beautiful example of servant leadership is still practiced by many churches, and for good reason. The lessons it teaches us as believers, are so valuable that Jesus wanted to make sure it was one of the last things His disciples remembered about His time on earth. With this one act, Jesus took the human ideas of status, pride and earning and replaced them with grace, humility and generosity.

Beyond its' powerful symbolism, Jesus washed the feet of His disciples for three reasons. It was a part of God's plan and why He was sent to live on earth. It was a lasting example to His disciples and us; from Simon Peter to Judas, Jesus humbled Himself for ALL. And lastly, it prepared Him for the cross along with the humiliation, suffering and unspeakable death that came with it.

So remember, the next time you say a kind word, offer assistance or do something for someone, do not be motivated by those that will see but by Him who was sent...

Pastor Aaron