Read: John 13:1-20
It is the time of year for self-reflection. For me I ask, “What kind of leader am I?” “How am I serving others?” “Whose interests am I seeking?” “Am I emulating Jesus?”
The night Jesus was arrested, he had earlier demonstrated what true servant leadership looked like. As he and his disciples prepared for the Passover meal, the great Son of God assumed the role of humble house servant as he washed their feet. Jesus had no problem doing this because he knew who he was, the Son of the Most High God, and soon he was going to return to his Father. However, Jesus wanted to leave a memorable example for his disciples about what it meant to follow him. They were to be servant leaders, seeking the well-being of others above their own desires.
This is the challenge of servant leadership: giving up our preferences, our comfort, and even our security to make an eternal difference for the Kingdom of God. The work can be wearisome and draining as we invest in others. Often times the return on investment is not as great as we want. Yet to be an effective servant leader, we are called to make sacrifices, to give up something.
As we think about new beginnings, may we consider our service to others. Are we following the example of Jesus? What is it we need to give up?
PRAYER PROMPT: Father, let us not grow weary of doing good and may we do good to everyone as we have opportunity, putting others ahead of ourselves. Amen.
Kevin Carrothers serves as director of missions for Salem South Baptist Association.