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Key Bible Verses: "I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message." (John 13:15-16) Dig Deeper: John 13:12-17

After washing the disciples' feet, Jesus said [the words in today's Key Bible Verses]. Unfortunately, many people view servanthood as a sign of weakness. And yet, from Jesus' perspective, it's a badge of strength. It often requires more strength of character to serve than to be served.

Jesus always interacted with people from a position of strength. Yet he exercised that strength not by dominating but by serving.

How did Jesus lead? He didn't seek honor—he extended it. He didn't crave respect—he gave it. The disciples tried to lead by fighting for honor and refusing to serve. They hadn't yet learned how to find their identity in Christ. Jesus didn't fight for a position of honor because his Father had already showered him with honor. Now he honored his disciples.

By washing the disciples' feet, Jesus lifted the disciples above himself. If the Messiah would stoop to serve them, it speaks volumes about their worth. I imagine, after Jesus' resurrection and ascension, the disciples often reflected on this amazing demonstration of respect. Without a doubt, knowing that Jesus loved and respected them fueled their ability and desire to dedicate their lives to carrying out their mission.

—Bill Perkins in The Jesus Experiment

My Response: I will look for ways to honor and respect others by serving them.

Thought to Apply: The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.—Ralph Waldo Emerson (essayist, lecturer, poet)

Adapted from The Jesus Experiment (Tyndale, 2011) by permission. All rights reserved by the copyright holder and/or the publisher. May not be reproduced.

Copyright © 2012 by Christianity Today/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Dear Father, help me to slow down and think deeply and often about the truth that "the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45).

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