Scripture:
- John 13:1-17
- Luke 22:24-27
- 2 Corinthians 4:5
- 1 Peter 4:10-11
Devotional Thought:
On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus wrapped a towel around His waist, knelt down, and washed His disciples’ feet. It was the job of the lowest servant in the household. It was dirty, humbling, and beneath the dignity of a rabbi. But Jesus did it anyway. And then He said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
Serving isn’t optional for followers of Jesus—it’s definitional. If you claim to follow Him, you’re called to serve like Him. Not occasionally. Not when it’s convenient. But as a lifestyle. As a posture. As the very heartbeat of how you live.
Peter tells us that each of us has received a gift, and we’re called to use it to serve others. Your gifts aren’t for you—they’re for the body. Your time isn’t just yours—it’s a stewardship. Your resources aren’t meant to be hoarded—they’re meant to be leveraged for the good of others and the glory of God.
When you serve, you put the gospel on display. You show the world what Jesus is like. You demonstrate that God’s kingdom operates differently than the world’s kingdom. You prove that love isn’t just a nice idea—it’s an action, a sacrifice, a choice to put others above yourself.
The way of Jesus is the way of the towel. It’s the way of laying down your life, bending low, and washing feet. And when you serve like that—when you love like that—you become more like the One who served and loved you first.
Reflection Questions:
- Does your life reflect the servant heart of Jesus, or are there areas where you’ve been more focused on being served?
- What would it look like for you to “pick up the towel” this week and serve someone in a tangible, humble way?
- How does your service point others to Jesus, and how could you be more intentional about that?
Application:
Ask God to show you where He’s inviting you to serve this week. Maybe it’s in your home. Maybe it’s in your church. Maybe it’s in your workplace or neighborhood. Don’t wait for someone to ask. Don’t wait for it to be convenient. Just step in and serve. Let your life reflect the servant heart of Jesus, and trust that God will use it for His glory.