DCLM Daily Manna Thursday 6 July 2023
TOPIC: Lead Like a Servant
TEXT: John 13:1-15 (KJV)
Key Verse:
“If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.”
(John 13:14)
DCLM Daily Manna Thursday 6 July 2023 MESSAGE
Leaders in the world, conventionally, crave recognition, respect and honour. They seek to be applauded for every little conduct. The promises they make and the work they do are all geared towards garnering popularity. To them, those they lead must remain grateful for their service.
Jesus Christ is different. He models a distinct type of leadership that is uncommon in the world. As He approached the end of His ministry on earth, He did something unusual. He took a bucket of water and began to wash the feet of His disciples, taking care to wipe them dry with a towel. Probably baffled, none of the disciples questioned this seemingly strange action, until Jesus got to Peter. He thought it was demeaning for his Master to wash his feet, a task usually reserved for servants in Jewish households. Jesus explained to him that except He washed his feet, he could not have a part with Him. He assured him that it was sufficient to wash the feet. When He completed the task, Jesus reminded the disciples that while they rightly called Him Master, they should follow His example and wash one another’s feet.
The standard of leadership expected of believers is much higher than what is practised in the world. His message was simple: the Christian leader is also to be of service to his people. He should not see himself as a master but as a servant. Every activity of his must bring benefits to his people. The spiritual and temporal well-being of the people must remain his preoccupation.
Believers too must have the same mind. When we bend low to serve others truly, then we can claim to be walking in the footsteps of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Exemplary Christlikeness is the mark of a true leader.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Kings 11-13
