“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you….Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.“ (John 13:14-15, 17, NIV)
Being humble isn’t the typical default setting for us, is it?
We’re more like the man received a promotion to the position of Vice President of his company. The promotion went to his head, and for weeks on end he bragged to anyone and everyone that he was now VP. His bragging came to an abrupt halt when his wife, frustrated and embarrassed by his behavior, said, “Listen Bob, it’s not that big a deal. These days everyone’s a vice president. Why, they even have a vice president of peas down at the supermarket!”
Somewhat deflated, Bob called the local supermarket to find out if this was true. “Can I speak to the Vice President of Peas, please?” he asked. On the other end of the line, the reply came: “fresh or frozen?”
Humility is a requirement for Jesus’ disciples – that means it is a spiritual discipline which you and I can obtain. In a sense, many of the other spiritual disciplines help us in our quest to become humble. When we worship, pray, fast, or read our Bibles, we’re reminded of God’s greatness and our many needs and shortcomings. That’s humbling.
But if you really want to grow in humility – and be blessed like Jesus promised above – there’s a trick. The best way to grow in humility is to serve others – with no strings attached, with no personal benefit, with no recognition, accolades, or titles received.
Then we’ll be following the example Jesus set for us and receive his blessing! Join us Sunday to find out more!
