John 13:12–17 ‘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.’ (vv13–14)
Today is Maundy Thursday. ‘Maundy’ is a Latin word for ‘command’ that reminds us of the commands Jesus gave His disciples; most especially, ‘Love one another as I have loved you’ (John 13:34).
During His Last Supper with His disciples, Jesus acknowledged His betrayal by a dinner guest (Judas) and also introduced the tradition of communion. This is the way in which we are to celebrate both the gift of salvation and also remind ourselves of our commitment to love each other. Perhaps the critical point is to recognise both the authority of Jesus and His leadership style.
Too often, leadership is taken as an opportunity to celebrate the leader. The danger here is that such leaders become isolated from reality and can too easily come to believe in themselves. No one is anybody without the Spirit of God. Indeed, anyone who has exercised leadership quickly recognises that their responsibilities are only sustainable through the endeavours of many people who implement the vision they cast. It is humbling to be entrusted with responsibility and to enjoy the trust of others, a humility that is reflected in Jesus’ own model of leadership. He immediately took the place of the lowest household servant and rolled up His sleeves to wash His disciples’ feet. This is a day to reflect on the commands of Jesus and how well we carry them out each day, as well as review our own attitudes and consider how we can live as the willing servant of all (Mark 9:35).
SCRIPTURE TO CONSIDER: Ezra 5:9–17; Matt 24:42–51; Mark 10:35–45; 2 Cor. 11:4–15.
AN ACTION TO TAKE: Take some time to think about developing your own life of service, and use this Easter weekend to make some prayerful decisions over life changes you will make.
A PRAYER TO MAKE: ‘Lord, I choose to be Your faithful servant. Help me to live a life of humility every day. Amen.’
