Hope Singapore: Greatness Of JesusSample

The Greatness of God: The Greatness of Jesus’ Humility

In Bible times, people walked around in sandals on dusty roads. Washing the guests’ feet was a task reserved for household slaves who were the lowliest of menial servants in those times. Feet-washing was thus perceived as a very lowly task. Being their Rabbi, the disciples would probably feel honoured to wash Jesus' feet, but it would be unthinkable for them to wash each other's feet!

One night, just as supper was being served, the disciples started to bicker over ‘which one among them is the greatest’ (Luke 22:24). As they bickered, Jesus wrapped a towel around his waist, kneeled down before each of his disciples (even the one who later betrayed him), took their filthy feet into His hands and begun to wash them as the lowliest of slaves would do.

Jesus illustrated the answer to their question and taught them to do what He has done, to wash one another’s feet. (John 13:14)

The act of feet washing is not only a symbol of spiritual cleansing (John 13: 6-9) but also a model of the attitude of true humility. Jesus is the King of Kings and the Lord of all creation, and yet He was willing to give up His rights in order to serve His people. His service to His creation was supremely exemplified by His death on the cross.

Christ’s example is for every Christian to have His attitude of humility to love and serve others. Every day, we can choose our attitudes – we can expect to be served or we can look for opportunities to serve others. Ultimately, in Christ’s humility, He served His creation, even to death on the Cross (Phil 2:8). There is a special blessing for those who not only agree that humble service is Christ’s way, but who also follow through and do it.

"16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them." (John 13:16-17)

REFLECTION
• Read Philippians 2:1-8. What can you learn from Jesus about relating with others with an attitude of humility?
• How do you think you can put on a spirit of humility to serve as Christ serves wherever you are placed?