The Greatness of Jesus
Greatness of Jesus' Humility
John 13:1-12, Philippians 2:1-8
In Bible times, people walked around in sandals on dusty and dirty routes. Washing the guests’ feet was a common practice for household slaves when the guests arrive at a house. Such a task was reserved for the lowliest of menial servants for the society at that time. Feet-washing is thus perceived as a very lowly task. Being their Rabbi, the disciples would most likely be glad to wash Jesus' feet, but it would be unthinkable for them to wash each other's feet.
One night, just as the supper was being served, Jesus wrapped a towel around his waist, kneeled down before each of his disciples (even the one who later betrayed him), took their filthy feet into His hands and begun to wash them as the lowliest slave would do.
Nathanael should have been the one pouring the water. Andrew should have been the one carrying the towel. But none of them did. Rather, they were arguing over ‘which one among them is the greatest’ (Luke 22:24) as they bickered, Jesus stood up to illustrated the answer to their question and taught them to do what He has done, to wash one another’s feet (John 13:14).
The act of feet washing is not only a symbol of spiritual cleansing (John 13: 6-9) but also a model of the attitude of true humility. Jesus is the King of Kings and the Lord of all creation, and yet he is willing to give up His rights in order to obey God and serve His people. His service to His creation is supremely exemplified by His death on the cross.
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)
The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. (Matthew 23:11)
Christ’s example is for every Christian to have His attitude of self-sacrificing humility to love and serve others. Are you willing to follow Christ’s example of serving? Whom can you serve today? There is a special blessing for those who not only agree that humble service is Christ’s way, but who also follow through and do it.
"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. 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. (John 13:13-17)
Every day, we can choose our attitudes – we can expect to be served or we can look for opportunities to serve others. Ultimately, in Christ’s humility, He served his creation, even to death on the Cross (Philippians 2:8).
"GREATER" - Conference Devotion Day 7 Hope Church Singapore
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