Humble Service: Following Christ’s Example

Scripture:

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.”

John 13:14

Background:
On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus gathered with His disciples for the Passover meal. In a powerful display of humility and love, He took the position of a servant and washed their feet. This act was shocking to the disciples, as foot washing was typically the duty of the lowest servant. Yet, Jesus used this moment to teach them—and us—about true greatness in the kingdom of God: humble service and love.

Devotional:
As Jesus approached the cross, He didn’t seek to exalt Himself; instead, He humbled Himself to serve. He, the Son of God, knelt before His disciples and washed their feet—Judas included. This was not just about physical cleanliness but a deeper, spiritual truth: serving others in love is central to following Christ.

Through this act, Jesus set an example of humility, sacrifice, and love. He calls us to serve as He served—to put others before ourselves, to love without expectation, and to embrace humility as a way of life. True greatness is not found in power or position but in lowering ourselves to lift others up.

As we prepare for Easter, let us reflect on Christ’s humility and ask ourselves: Are we willing to serve as He served? Are we seeking to love as He loved?

Reflection:

How does Jesus’ act of washing the disciples’ feet challenge your understanding of leadership and service?
In what ways can you humbly serve others in your daily life?
How does this passage deepen your appreciation for Christ’s sacrifice on the cross?
Is there someone in your life whom God is calling you to serve selflessly?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for demonstrating true humility and love. Help me to follow Your example, serving others with a heart that reflects Your grace. Teach me to put aside pride and selfish ambition so that I may humbly love and serve as You did. As I prepare my heart for Easter, remind me that true greatness is found in selfless love. Amen.

Application:
Find a way to serve someone today in a way that reflects Christ’s humility. It may be through an act of kindness, a word of encouragement, or meeting a need without expecting anything in return. Look for ways to embody Christ’s love in your daily life.

Takeaway:
Jesus, the King of kings, humbled Himself to serve. As His followers, we are called to do the same. True greatness in the kingdom of God is found in serving others with love.