Power to Serve

What comes to mind when you think of someone with power? Maybe a political leader, a celebrity, a billionaire, or the CEO of a business. While these people do have power, all of us have power in one way or another. If you have been educated, if you hold a position of leadership or responsibility, or even just if you have friends, siblings, or a boyfriend or girlfriend, you have some level of power. The power we have can be used in one of two ways: to hurt or to serve.

In today’s Bible reading, John tells us that “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power.” Wow, what a statement! And then what does Jesus immediately do? He gets down on his knees and washes the undoubtedly dirty feet of his followers. And it’s not just here – he does it throughout the Gospels. He silences storms, heals people, and even raises someone from the dead. Jesus used his power to serve others, not himself.

Peter’s initial response to Jesus washing his feet is disbelief. It feels unbelievable and radical that Jesus, the Son of God, would serve in such a way, and yet he does. Of course, Jesus would later use his power to serve us all in another, far greater way: he laid down his life for us.

Questions:  

1. How does the example of Jesus shape the way you think about the right use of power?  
2. In verse eight, why do you think Jesus told Peter that unless he washed his feet, Peter could have no part with him?  
3. Where do you have power? What might it look like to use that to serve others?

Prayer:

Dear God, you are powerful and mighty. Thank you that even though Jesus has incredible power, he did not use it for himself but instead to serve me. Help me to use the power I have to serve and love those around me so that they might know your love more. Amen.