Servant Leaders
In 1854, Florence Nightingale arrived at a military hospital during the Crimean War. The conditions were horrible - filth, disease, and despair filled the air. Rather than issuing orders from a distance, she picked up a lamp and walked the dark corridors, caring for wounded soldiers one by one. Her compassion and humility transformed nursing into a respected profession. Nightingale led not through position or power, but through service. She earned the nickname “The Lady with the Lamp” because she brought light, both literally and spiritually, to the darkest places. Her example reminds us that true leadership often begins not on a platform, but on our knees, serving others.
John 13:1-17
On the night before His death, Jesus gathered with His disciples for supper. John tells us that He knew the Father had placed all things under His power, that He had come from God and was returning to God. Knowing this, he rose from the table, took off His outer robe, and wrapped a towel around His waist. Then, the One who could command angels knelt to wash their feet, a task so lowly that even Jewish servants were exempt from it, usually reserved for Gentile slaves. When He finished, Jesus said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” In this, Jesus redefined power and leadership, showing that in God’s kingdom, greatness is expressed through love, humility, and service.
Things to Ponder
When have you seen someone lead by serving quietly, rather than being in charge?
Why do you think Jesus washed His disciples’ feet instead of giving a speech about serving?
How might humility change the way we treat people in our homes, schools, or workplaces?
What’s one small way you can serve someone this week without being asked?
How do you think others feel when you take time to notice and help them?
Application Challenge
In our world, leadership often looks like being the loudest or most visible. But Jesus shows us another way. What would it look like to lead through kindness, patience, and attention to others’ needs? Maybe it’s taking the less exciting chore, helping a sibling with homework, or encouraging a co-worker who’s overwhelmed. Small acts of service have eternal value because they reflect the heart of Christ.
Could God be using your everyday moments to teach you how to serve like Jesus? When you choose to serve first, you don’t lose authority, you use your influence to point others toward Him.
Prayer Prompt
God, thank You for showing us that true leadership comes through humility and love. Teach us to serve others with joy, even when no one else notices. Help our homes, schools, and workplaces become places where Your example of washing feet is lived out through kindness, patience, and care. In Jesus’ name, Amen.