Scripture Focus: John 13:1–17

As Jesus approached the darkest hours of His life—the night before His crucifixion—He gathered with His disciples for a final meal. What He did next defied every cultural expectation.

Jesus, knowing that the Father had given Him all authority and that His time had come, rose from the table, removed His outer garment, wrapped a towel around His waist, and began to wash the feet of His disciples. This was a task reserved for the lowest servant in a household. Yet, the Son of God stooped to do it Himself.

When He came to Peter, Peter resisted:

“Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”
Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”

After finishing, Jesus said:

“Do you understand what I have done for you? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.”
(John 13:12–14)

It was a final, unforgettable lesson in servant-hearted love: not love that waits for thanks or recognition, but love that humbles itself for the good of others.

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Reflection from My Life:

Although Jesus was the ultimate example of humility and love, I believe there are people sacrificing on a daily basis for others. Most of these acts go unnoticed—quiet, humble choices made behind the scenes—not for applause, but because it’s the right thing to do.

When I attended LeTourneau University, one of the foundational concepts in the business management program was something called Servant Leadership. That idea has stuck with me ever since.

LeTourneau defines servant leadership as “a leadership philosophy where leaders prioritize the needs of their followers and community above their own, fostering growth and well-being. It emphasizes serving first, then leading, and focuses on the development and empowerment of those being led.”

Jesus embodied that perfectly. He was the leader of the disciples—their Teacher, their Lord—and yet He did not consider Himself above them. He did what needed to be done, even the lowest tasks. He wasn’t posturing. He was loving.

That model of leadership—of love—has shaped how I see influence and responsibility. Real leadership isn’t about status. It’s about serving. The best leaders I’ve known haven’t demanded loyalty—they’ve earned it through sacrifice and care.

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Takeaway:

Unconditional love serves—even when no one is watching, even when it costs you something.

Jesus didn’t just teach servant leadership. He lived it. And He asked us to do the same:

“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.”

May we never see ourselves as too important to serve. May we look for feet to wash, not thrones to sit on. Because love—the kind that changes lives—starts with humility.