John 13:12–15

So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.

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As Jesus predicted in John 13:7, the disciples did not fully understand what Jesus had done, so He offered an explanation. Jesus’ service provided an example for them to follow. Unlike the Pharisees, who said one thing but did another (Matthew 23:3), Jesus practiced what He preached. Jesus’ humble act also foreshadowed His imminent death. Just as He lowered Himself to wash feet, Jesus—as God manifested in flesh—lowered Himself from His throne in Heaven to be crucified in Jerusalem.

The man who carries the title “World’s Poorest President” is Jose “Pepe” Mujica. Although he was the fortieth president of Uruguay, serving from 2010 to 2015, he was no stranger to hardship. He had been shot multiple times and spent thirteen years isolated in jail. When he became president, he would have been well within his rights to enjoy a little comfort in the presidential palace.

He chose instead to forfeit his right to live there while donating 90 percent of his presidential salary to charity (Indiatimes.com, “Ten Influential People Showed the World Humility Is All That Matters”). True leaders seek the well-being of their people rather than their own personal comfort. The King of all kings modeled deep humility throughout His thirty-three years on earth, and He calls each of us to follow in His humble footsteps.

That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.

WORD OF PRAYER

Jesus, I am in awe of Your humility and the example You set for me. You, the King of all kings, lowered Yourself to serve and wash the feet of Your disciples, showing that true greatness comes through serving others. Help me to follow in Your footsteps, to lay aside my pride, and to seek opportunities to serve those around me. Teach me to love as You love, not just in word, but in action. May I live each day with a heart of humility, always remembering the example You have given. Thank You, Jesus, for showing me the true path to greatness through service.

In the name of Jesus, amen.