I Have Set You An Example
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24 | JOHN 13:12-17
“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” John 13:15
In the washing of his disciples’ feet, Jesus had done an outrageous thing. Jesus, the Master, had humbly bowed before and served those who were supposed to follow him. Philippians 2:6-7 says that Jesus, though “being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant.” Jesus came to serve among us for our benefit, for our salvation, so that we might know and enter into the love God has for us.
In doing this, Jesus also set an example for us to follow. He showed us how we can live in the most blessed way possible: in humble service. When we serve others, we give our time,
our attention, our resources, our very selves for other people’s benefit and flourishing. It’s a way of life that influences our every interaction. As imitators of Christ, we practice things like good listening, generous hospitality, and faithful care for people in need, starting with those closest to us.
Following Jesus’ example of humble service is no easy calling.
In Romans 12:10 we are instructed, “Honor one another above yourselves.” This is something we cannot do without the Spirit of Christ living in us. But Scripture promises that as we serve others, Christ, by his Spirit, is present to guide, equip, and bless.
How can you serve others today?
PRAYER:
Loving God, thank you that Christ Jesus came to this earth as a humble servant. Help me today to humbly serve others in whatever way I can. Amen.
—WRITTEN BY RUTH BOVEN
