In what ways can we follow Jesus' example from John 13:12 today? Setting the Scene “ ‘When Jesus had washed their feet and put on His outer garments, He reclined with them again and asked, “Do you understand what I have done for you?” ’ ” (John 13:12) The Lord of glory stooped to the floor, handled dusty feet, and wiped them clean. In that simple, shocking act He pressed a living picture of humble love into the disciples’ memories—and into ours. Key Lessons in the Moment • Service over status: the Master takes the servant’s role. • Action before explanation: the lesson is felt before it is taught. • Holy love is practical love: real needs get real help. Practical Ways to Imitate Jesus Today Humble Service • Seek the low place: “ ‘Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant’ ” (Matthew 20:26). Choose the unnoticed tasks at church, work, or home. • Serve without spotlight: help stack chairs, wash dishes, change diapers in the nursery—jobs that rarely make social media. Meeting Tangible Needs • Keep a small “mercy fund” ready for groceries, gas, or a utility bill when someone in the body of Christ hits a tight spot (1 John 3:17). • Offer practical skills—car repair, tutoring, tech help—to those who can’t repay. Crossing Social Barriers • Invite the overlooked to your table: international students, the elderly neighbor, the single parent (Luke 14:12-14). • Visit shut-ins or hospital patients others may forget (James 1:27). Teaching by Living Example • Let children, teens, and new believers watch you serve; then explain why, just as Jesus reclined and asked, “Do you understand?” • Pair words with deeds—share the gospel while meeting needs so people see truth fleshed out (1 Thessalonians 2:8). Persevering in Love • Wash “feet” even when they’re dirty again tomorrow—keep forgiving, keep helping (Galatians 6:9). • Remember Christ’s motive: “ ‘Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve’ ” (Matthew 20:28). Let gratitude fuel endurance. Heart Checks That Guard the Motive • Am I serving to be seen or because love compels me? (Philippians 2:3-4). • Do I lay aside personal rights and preferences as quickly as Jesus laid aside His outer garment? • Is my attitude gentle toward those whose “feet” are especially smelly—people who frustrate or fail me? Encouragement for Daily Living We don’t need a basin and towel to follow John 13:12. A ready heart, willing hands, and eyes open to everyday needs will do. As we move through kitchens, office corridors, city streets, and church hallways, the same Lord who knelt in the upper room supplies the grace to kneel today. “Serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13) and the world will glimpse the Servant-King through us. |
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