John 13:1-17
Key Verse: Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. (John 13:3-4)
As In recent years the world of business has been blessed with a number of leadership experts. Writers like Tom Peters, Peter Drucker, Stephen Covey, John Maxwell, and so many others have introduced powerful concepts in leadership practice. Several of these writers, who may or may not use Robert Greenleaf’s term, promote some form of servant-leadership. Greenleaf introduced this term in 1970, but the concept is much older.
The evening before the crucifixion, Jesus did something remarkable: John tells us Jesus got up from supper, poured water into the basin, and began to wash his disciples’ feet. That is remarkable enough, but what is astonishing is what was in Jesus’ mind when He did this. He was demonstrating his authority. John tells us, “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God”; so he got down and washed the disciples’ feet. He was demonstrating his authority by serving his disciples.
With this unforgettable image, Jesus demonstrates servant-leadership. And He tells us this is exactly His intention when, after washing the disciples’ feet He says to these men who were to be the leaders of the church, “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 that you should do as I have done for you.” (13-15) Servant-leadership is about serving those you lead.
He goes on to explain that although the position of leadership involves rank, the practice of leadership involves service. He says to the men, who are no doubt puzzled by his actions, “Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them” (16-17). They had seen the Lord of the Universe bowing to wash His disciples’ feet, and he said this is how they were to lead.
If you are a leader in any area of your life, are you a servant-leader? Do you see your role as serving those you are leading? Can you serve them to bring out the best in them? Do they follow you, not because they must, but because they see you have their best interests at heart and you serve them?
Prayer: Father, when I see opportunities to serve, help me to take them. If I see someone in need, let me respond as I should. Make me a channel of your love. If I am leading others, let me be a servant leader.
