Photo by Donald Janssen on Unsplash
By Mike Chaffin
So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? John 13:12
Jesus led by example and taught in parables. Sometimes it is difficult to grasp all the lessons and meaning of all that Jesus did. Everything He did, He did for all of us.
In this example He washed the disciples’ feet in the upper room hours before His betrayal and crucifixion. Peter, never shy about saying the first thing to come to mind, didn’t understand and told him so. Jesus knew they didn’t understand the example, so He explained it.
13 You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. John 13:13-15
Jesus was their leader, their teacher and although they didn’t know what God’s plan was for salvation, they believed He was the Messiah. But Jesus through His teaching and this example showed that leaders must be servants to those they lead.
16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. John 13:16-17
As a child of God we may be given any role of leadership, in business or the church, but we are still servants of God. Therefore, as servants we serve those we work with and exert spiritual oversight.
The best way to show the love of God and shine God’s light into the lives of others is by example. A wise man once said,
“The three most important ways to lead people are:…
by example… walk the talk, and
by example…
by example.” Albert Schweitzer
How do we set an example that others want to emulate?
“The leader sees things through the eyes of his followers. He puts himself in their shoes and helps them make their dreams come true. The leader does not say, “Get going!” Instead he says, “Let’s go!” and leads the way. He does not walk behind with a whip; he is out in front with a banner.” Wilfred Peterson
Jesus our Messiah laid down His life for all of humanity. If we love Him, we will follow His commands.
Contemplation: Do I have a servant’s heart? What example am I setting for those around me?
