Leading Like Jesus

"Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet." John 13:14 (NIV)

The reality show Undercover Boss features CEOs disguising themselves as entry-level employees to experience the daily struggles of their workers. They quickly realize the challenges their teams face—long hours, difficult tasks, and unseen sacrifices. When they reveal their true identity, employees are often deeply moved, recognizing that their leader wasn’t there to inspect but to understand. Many executives walk away humbled, seeing leadership not as power, but as service, discovering that true leadership requires stepping down, not standing above.

Jesus modeled this kind of leadership in John 13:12-16. Though He was the Son of God, He took on the role of a servant, washing His disciples’ feet—a task reserved for the lowest. In doing so, He taught that true greatness comes through humility and service, not status or control.

He reinforced this in John 13:16, saying, “No servant is greater than his master.” If Christ, our Lord, humbled Himself, how much more should we? Leadership isn’t about power—it’s about lifting others up, just as Christ did. This act wasn’t just about teaching a lesson in humility; it was about demonstrating obedience to the Father’s will. Jesus’ leadership was a reflection of His submission to God, showing that service is part of holiness and spiritual growth.

Jesus calls us to follow His example, both in leadership and in our relationship with God. In Matthew 20:26-28, He reminds us: “Whoever wants to be great must be a servant.” Serving isn’t weakness—it’s the essence of Christlike leadership. True service leads to transformation—becoming more Christlike through the daily practice of humility and love.

Paul echoes this in Philippians 2:3-4, urging us to put others before ourselves: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” This isn’t just about being kind—it’s about surrendering personal pride for the sake of holiness and growth. Our love for neighbor is inseparable from love for God, making service an integral part of our Christian journey.

Today, where is God calling you to serve? In forgiving someone? Helping a coworker? Setting aside personal pride for another’s good? Jesus has shown us the way—now it’s our turn to follow.

"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." John 13:15

Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus’ example of servant leadership. Help me lead with humility, serve with love, and reflect your grace in all I do. Show me where I can serve and lead in ways that honor you. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim