Bible Reading Blog
“The Power of Service”
Categories: Congregational Bible ReadingBIBLE READING: John 13
“Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” (John 13.5)
The act of washing feet is simple but incredibly profound. Jesus — the Savior and King of the world — engages in the dirty, menial task of servitude in some of his last moments on earth. He didn’t speak to them of his greatness or flaunt the power he would soon receive. This would have been expected. In fact, Peter indignantly tried to keep Jesus from washing his feet (John 13.6, 8).
But it was because Peter didn’t understand the nature of Jesus and his work. Jesus didn’t rise to prominence because of military prowess or strategic political maneuvering. It wasn’t his intellect or any sort of manipulation that made him influential. He submitted himself to the Father’s will. And so, by serving others, Jesus had put himself in a position of power that no one could touch.
Naturally, this doesn’t make sense. People of prominence should be served by those of lesser position. We are in many ways conditioned to see things through the lens of rank. But Jesus completely rejects this notion.
The true power of Jesus was that he was subject to no man. It didn’t matter what others thought of him, said of him, or even did to him. By making himself a servant to all, he assumed control of his life that no man could take (John 10.17-18). But more importantly his humility aligned him with the Father and provided greater opportunity for God’s glory (John 8.49-50). Ultimately, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet because true power serves others.
“When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, "Do you understand what I have done to you?”” (John 13.12)
His question is somewhat rhetorical because he knew his disciples wouldn’t understand in this moment (John 13.7). They thought they were on the way to greatness—which they were… but not like they expected. And so, in this critical moment, he needed them to be impressed by his service and not by his power.
Do we understand what Jesus did? Even our most noble pursuits are self-seeking at times. We, like Peter, tend to rank our morality and service in hopes of some sort of recognition. But in these moments we need to see our Savior get on his knees and wash their dirty feet. Only then will we begin to see his love and understand the true power of service.
“You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” (John 13.13-15, 17)
