Jesus Style Leadership 2 - Love & HeartSample

Jesus, the Servant Leader

Leadership Lesson

Jesus loved to serve his followers in concrete ways.

Read John 13:1–5.

Comment

I’m not a fan of having my feet washed in ceremonies that happen every now and then in churches. I feel quite awkward about people touching my feet. But the disciples would have been much more uncomfortable having their feet washed by Jesus. Washing the feet of travelers as they entered a house was the job of the least significant person (usually a slave), definitely not the leader. Clearly, none of the disciples were willing to do it. But as we have already seen, Jesus turned leadership upside down. Don’t think for a minute that Jesus reluctantly washed the feet of His mates because no one else would. Note that Jesus knew His authority and place as the Messiah (13:3). As a result, He gladly took on the slave role. He saw it as His privilege. Washing feet was naturally what a leader with ultimate authority and power would do in Jesus’ new kingdom. It was His prerogative. You may not have to wash anyone’s feet, but as a Jesus-style leader, you will show your love through practical acts of sacrificial service again and again. It could be an encouraging word, a shared prayer, a hospital visit, a generous gift, an inconvenient action, a coffee invitation, or just some personal interest.

Prayer

Please open my eyes to the privilege of serving others, Jesus. You not only served the disciples by washing their feet, but You continue to serve me every day. I appreciate the greatness that was displayed in Your servant heart, and I long that I might have the same privilege of serving those you entrust to my care.

Personal Reflection

Maybe you have not washed the feet of those you lead (I could be wrong), but what are you doing practically to show that you love them? How would they know that you really do love them and want to serve them?