Growing in HopeSample

Jesus Serves

This is crazy to think about! Jesus, the King of all kings, the Creator of the universe, who came to the earth to bring salvation to humanity, also came to serve!!!

Even though Jesus is equal to God, He came as a servant and did not consider himself equal to God. He came and did everything the Father told Him to do. He was 100% obedient to the Father, even unto death!!! 

One of the most famous stories of Jesus being a servant is found in John 13:1-17. 

The setting of this story is the last meal that Jesus had with His disciples before He was arrested and crucified. During this “Last Supper”, Jesus washed His disciples’ feet. Just think, they did not have socks and tennis shoes like we do. Not only were their feet filthy, but washing someone else’s feet was a duty that only the servants did. Can you imagine? The King of the Universe bent over as a servant to wash their stinky, dirty feet! Let’s read verses 13-15 together:

“You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord’, and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you.”

Jesus was intentional here about setting an example for His disciples to follow. He served. Even though He was their Teacher and Lord, He took the role of a servant and washed their feet. 

God’s servant heart is seen clearly in the life of Jesus. He washed the feet of His disciples, putting their needs above His own, and as He gave up His life in obedience to the Father, as a sacrifice for our sins.

He didn’t have to serve but He did. As followers of Jesus, He expects us to serve, too.

Are you serving?

This week what is one way you can better serve God?

How can you better serve those around you in a practical way?

Prayer:
Father, You are holy! It is only because of Jesus’ sacrifice that I can be in relationship with You. For Him, I am thankful! Teach me today how to be more like Jesus. Help me say “no” to my pride and selfishness, so that I can say “yes” to loving and serving as You do. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.