Know Yourself

John 13:3-4 ³ Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; ⁴ so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist.

During the teens and twenties, most people struggle to find out just who they are. They push against their parents in an attempt to discover their purpose and direction. They enter the world of work, usually in fairly dead end jobs. They wander until they hopefully find something to do what will bring them some level of satisfaction.

It is rare for people to find their niche right away. Some of the richest people in the world have created a niche. Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk. They seem to have found a spot that they loved and also made them very rich.

Jesus was a person who knew His origin and history and He also knew His future. He stood in a unique place in history. He came to earth with a purpose and His whole life was driven toward that goal.

And now the time has come for the pinnacle event of His life here on Earth. He is ready to go to the Cross. He only has a few moments left with His disciples. Every moment counts.

And what does Jesus do? Jesus demonstrates His own understanding who He is as the Servant of the LORD, and He gets up from the table and fulfills the role of the lowest servant in the household. He does the very act that the least important servant would normally do in that culture: wash guests’ feet.

How many people who are at the pinnacle of their life choose to really serve others? Not that many. I read about a billionaire who actually gave all his money away before he died. And he gave it away without fanfare and ceremony. He did it anonymously.

What is your purpose here in life? What is your niche that you fill? How are you doing at fulfilling it?

Jesus gave His disciples and example of servanthood that crosses cultures and history. He acted as a servant. He wants us to find a place of service and serve as he did, without recognition and fanfare.

I think Jesus might tell us to find the lowliest job that needs to be done, and do it for the glory of God. Serve others with enthusiasm and dedication. Don’t seek out recognition for what you do. Just do it from the bottom of your heart. Do it as unto the LORD.