15I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. John 13:15-17

Jesus spoke these words after vividly demonstrating for his disciples that leadership means servanthood. It's amazing to think that the one who holds all things together by his word, stooped to perform the task of a common servant; washing his disciples feet. 

Jesus' words are not just suggestions for his followers, but rather a commandment. He tells us to do as we have seen him do. Too often, when it comes to leadership, those who have been given titles begin to feel like they are too good for the towel. I've encountered the shock of this prideful attitude many times disguised with words like, "My gifts just aren't being utilized" or "They're just trying to keep me down" when a leader with a title is asked to pick up a towel. Funny, how the 'Creator of the Cosmos' didn't feel like foot washing was beneath his place in the Kingdom of God. 

Jesus challenges the ego of a leader and reveals the "Do as I say and not as do" mindset held by so many leaders in the church today. It has always been curious to me, not only did Jesus wash the disciples feet, but it appears he was the only one to recognize the need! Simply stated, "The default setting for a leader must always be servanthood". This was the mindset of the King of Kings. this should certainly be the mindset of those who call Him. "Master".

So what jobs or opportunities to serve do you feel like are beneath you today? How does Jesus' actions challenge your ego and excuses? What is a need that others are missing that God may be showing you to meet, personally?