Reflect the Servant

“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God's varied grace.” (1 Peter 4:10 ESV)

The Gospel of John 13:1-17 provides a poignant scene where Jesus, the Son of God, takes on the role of a humble servant by washing his disciples' feet, an act traditionally performed by servants. In doing so, he demonstrates his love for his followers and vividly reveals the Christological narrative of descent, humiliation, atonement, and exaltation.

John provides a beautiful reflection of the foot-washing scene as it unfolds. Through this, we can see the mirrored image of the incarnation. Jesus “got up from the meal” just as He rose from His heavenly throne; Jesus “took off his outer clothing” as He laid aside His divine glory. “He wrapped himself in a towel” just as he took the form of a servant in the incarnation. Jesus poured out water and cleaned away the dirt on the feet of His apostles, just as He would cleanse the sins of humanity on the cross. “When He had finished washing… He put on his clothes and returned to his place,” just as he did in the resurrection an ascension when he returned to glory when he returned to the Father’s right hand, having put an end to sin and death.

Paul wrote in  Philippians 2:1:5, “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

This powerful gesture on Christ's part not only demonstrates humility but also the essence of a good steward. Jesus, the ultimate steward of humanity's salvation, exemplifies the importance of selfless service. In stewarding the essential ability to wash another’s feet, He sets the example of serving others with deep love and humility that mirrored his entire mission.

Prayer

Gracious and loving God, You call us to be stewards of your abundance, the caretakers of all you have entrusted us with. Send the Holy Spirit to work through us, bringing your message to those we serve.

Amen