https://odb.org/2024/01/18/washing-feet-and-dishes
Jesus washing His disciples’ feet is servant leadership in personam. You may read about this in John 13:6-17. It is a physical act, and the feet are the most dirty part of the body during those times as their footwear were usually sandals that are exposed to dirt and dust. Although symbolic, it is less useful to replicate this act nowadays since our feet are generally clean. Most wear socks and covered shoes. But the principles remain.
The principles enumerated by Jesus’s washing His disciples’ feet are first, servant leadership and secondly humility. Thus, if we have given our lives to Christ to serve Him, we are to serve as servant leaders. The higher we are in church and ministry leadership, the more we need to give ourselves for the congreation of believers that we are shepherding. They are, after all, our sheep.
Secondly, it is also about humility, and that is important as people tend to become proud when they become leaders. This is as much true in the world as it is in church. It’s an achievement to be recognised as a leader, and we are proud of ourselves. But if we are Christian leaders, we need to remain humble for the simple reason that, as James pointed out in James 4:6, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. It is not merely a teaching but a statement of fact. Do we want God to oppose us, or would we want His grace and providence? Do we clamour for divine retribution, or would we rather have blessings from heaven?
I don’t think Jesus meant for us to go round washing other people’s feet in these contemporary times. It will look odd and awkward. But I think it will be more useful that as leaders, we treat others with respect and in humility although we may think we are more experienced or knowledgeable or have read many more books. Don’t be condescending and look down on others who are weaker or younger in faith or who are struggling with life issues. Instead, look at everyone with the eyes of Christ that they need God in their lives for this life and the life thereafter. Humility doesn’t come naturally, pride does. So learn it and learn it well, with the grace of God.
Ronnie's Thoughts 