Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. (John 13:14)
THIRTY-SEVEN YEARS of working at a paper manufacturer had brought Bruce to the top of the heap. He had “paid his dues,” sweeping floors as a high school junior, working summers between college terms, and spending three decades more becoming the head of the company. All of that was about to change! He was just ten years from retirement when he felt an overwhelming desire to cut his career short and prepare for the ministry. As he stood in the commons of the seminary on registration day, he was drawn to the life-size bronze sculpture of Jesus washing Peter’s feet. Bruce marveled at the great detail, but was mildly irritated when he had to get on his knees to see Jesus’ downturned face. Just then, Dr. Ross, the seminary president, stopped and said, “The artist was making a point. To serve like Jesus, you have to assume the same position.”
No matter what position you hold in your family, your business, or your church, if you want to serve like Jesus did, you must humble yourself. Jesus didn’t merely give a talk, piling up examples of biblical characters who lowered themselves for others. Instead, He assumed the position himself, and became the example for all of us from that day forward. Have you copied His example of willing service?
Ask Jesus to show you where to begin serving.
Paul Zinter has served as a pastor and editor. He enjoys writing, bread making, and teaching at his local church.
