The Peace and Promise of ChristmasSample

The Heart of a Servant

The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many -Mark 10:45. 

From time to time, King James V of Scotland (1512–1542) would set aside his royal robes to dress in the clothes of a commoner. Why would he do such a thing? So he could wander freely among the people. He wanted to understand life outside the castle and to live that life for a brief time among his subjects. It was an intentional act of humility as the King stepped into a world very different from the one his status merited.

But Jesus did much more. Although He was the very essence of God, Jesus came into this world and took on the life of a servant. Paul wrote that Christ made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness (Philippians 2:7). 

As He ate the Passover meal with His disciples the night before His trial and crucifixion, Jesus vividly demonstrated this for us. His disciple John tells us that Jesus got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist (John 13:4). Then He washed the dirty feet of His disciples. 

This humble act validates Christ’s assessment of His mission: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). So why are we surprised that He would take a basin and towel to wash His disciples' feet? Jesus showed us the heart of the King who serves. 

How do you react to Jesus' startling example of serving others in even the most menial tasks? How can you serve someone today? 

Loving Savior, we are humbled by Your humble example of service. Please help us to show more of that in our lives today.