We live in a world that has become increasingly selfish and self-centered. It seems that many are only living in this life to please themselves rather than to serve others. As a result, there is a devaluation of others, rather than there being a focus on encouraging and esteeming our neighbors. When the object of self is the desire, it becomes difficult to see the needs of those around us.

This can create an entire social structure that is predicated on selfish ambition, rather than civil and collective servitude. But what does it mean to be a servant? What does it mean to be in the mode of serving others?

In John 13: 12-15 Jesus is seen washing the feet of His disciples. As He does so, he has a conversation with them that ties into the concept of serving:

“When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.”

Foot washing in the Bible was seen as one of the ordinances of the early and first church. It also symbolized humility and service unto others. If we think about Jesus for a minute, He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords which means that He has been given the role of having the ultimate authority by God. In the scripture above, Jesus is asking the disciples if they understand what He has done for them. Despite Him having the role of Teacher and Lord, He makes it clear that He had a distinct purpose for washing the disciple’s feet. Take note that Jesus says that He Himself is the example of servanthood or being a servant. Then He says, that the disciples are to also do the same as Jesus did.

There are really three principles that can be taken from the above scripture:

1. Serving others is a selfless act – To serve means to take others into consideration and not to esteem oneself so highly. Being a servant is about ensuring that others are cared for and that their needs are being met before yours. It takes very little energy to receive, but it takes more energy and commitment to serve someone else. When a person is a servant, they are producing the fruit of humility and service to others expecting nothing in return. It is not about self, rather, it is about doing good unto those around you first.
2. Serving others has nothing to do with position – We live in a world that is full of hierarchies. Positions such as President, King, Queen, Prime Minister, and even other leadership positions related to business, they exist all around us. However, regardless of any position, service is an independent act. There are those who believe that their position in leadership causes them to be immune to being a servant. In other words, some believe that they do not need to serve others, that their position of leadership elevates them above everyone else. However, Jesus shows us that even if one is in a prime position of leadership by title, serving is not optional but should be expected.
3. Jesus is the model for servanthood – Jesus Christ is the model for humanity to follow in all areas, but specifically, He models serving others. In the scripture noted above, Jesus makes it clear that He is the sole example of serving. We as Christ followers should look to Jesus as our example for leading and serving.

So, the question here is, will you dare to be a servant? In a society that postures itself on self-gratification will you seek to serve others instead? Serving is not as easy as it sounds, because it involves sacrifice and a steady desire to fulfill the needs of those around you before yourself. However, there is a reward that occurs when we serve others. It is the fact that we are using our gifts, skills, time, and talent to help someone else. It then means we become fulfilled in our own lives and the cycle of service continues to spread.

Do you know Jesus in the pardon of your sins? If you don’t know Christ, today is a great day to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior. Once you come to the knowledge of Christ and have a relationship with Him, He will enable you to serve others with a heart that is fixed solely upon fulfilling needs as opposed to receiving for selfish gain. Look to Jesus Christ, as He is our example.