So he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. (John 13:4)
One year for Pastor Appreciation, the church passed out names of the ministry team as prayer partners for the year. The director of a mission group received the name of my eight-year-old daughter. This busy man took time each month to write Emily a letter, telling her stories from his childhood and reminding her to always love Jesus. For a whole year this humble man “wrapped a towel around his waist” and served a young girl.
Jesus was the greatest servant of all. He provided food for a multitude. He touched lepers and muddied his hands in order to heal a blind man. But Jesus’ servant heart was seen most clearly when he wrapped a towel around his waist and washed the disciples’ feet.
Can you imagine the hands that would soon be scarred by spikes, gently washing the feet of his friends—even the one who would betray him? These feet were filthy from walking on dusty roads. The grit of earth mixed with the water in the basin. The greatness of humility met the heart of a King.
There’s no greater example than Jesus. His humility draws our hearts to serve. Foster parenting is serving. Ladling soup into bowls for the homeless and wiping up spilled milk is serving. The smallest deeds can become the greatest acts of service when given with a humble heart.
Don the towel, fill the basin, and ask God where to serve.
Pamela J. Kuhn’s favorite word is joy and her favorite place is anywhere that holds books and sells tea. Her husband, R. B., is an associate professor at Indiana Wesleyan University.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
