Daily Devotion, March 21, 2021

 

Devotion:

Read John 13:1-9.

One of the primary lessons Jesus taught his disciples was that they were to be servants. In the other three Gospels, we read of him doing that in response to them arguing with each other as to who would be the greatest in his kingdom. In this Gospel, this writer recalls this scene to emphasize that lesson. Jesus takes on a task that was usually reserved for a servant of the house. And when he completes it, he lets them know that this is to be fundamental to their relationship with each other. This is what it looks like to lead in his kingdom. He would follow that up the next day by sacrificing his life.

There is another important lesson for leaders in this scene as well. Peter spoke for a lot of people in saying that he did not want Jesus washing his feet. Perhaps he felt unworthy of having that done. Or perhaps he just didn’t like anybody else doing something for him. Well-intentioned people can sometimes think both of those things. But Jesus makes it clear that being part of his kingdom is also being willing to receive service from others, especially your brothers and sisters in the Church. It is like love: you cannot really give it until you have first received it.

Being a leader among the people of Jesus Christ includes being willing to serve the needs of others. And when you are in need, it also includes being willing to let others serve you.

Personal Worship Option:

Which part do you struggle with most: serving the needs of others or admitting there are times when you are in need and allowing others to serve you? Pray and ask God to help you grow in that area.