Serve: To Wield Power With Integrityਨਮੂਨਾ

Jesus knew that his time on Earth was running out, and he wanted to leave a meaningful teaching for his disciples before he departed. The question of whether to wash Judas' feet was not up for debate; the service that Jesus demonstrated transcended human comparisons. It was an expression of his nature—an act of sovereignty and an eternal lesson meant to transform their understanding of power.

Meanwhile, the disciples, preoccupied with their thoughts about who was the greatest among them, began dinner without acknowledging who might be responsible for washing the feet of others. Jesus seized the opportunity to teach them three principles that would dismantle the conventional model of service based on victimization or mere exchange.

First, we serve with an urgent sense of purpose, as our time on earth is merely a fleeting moment compared to eternity. Jesus understood that he was returning to the Father. When we recognize this transcendent truth, we must not debate who should serve whom; instead, we should focus on promoting something far greater than ourselves.

Second, remember that serving others is both a moral obligation and a fundamental aspect of our nature. It involves recognizing the authority we must bring about positive change and expressing the loving nature of the God we worship. We serve because we love and are loved. Those who seek eternal love outside of God have already lost their way, and those who try to make service the sole purpose of their lives without embracing love will miss the true essence of service as exemplified by Jesus.

Third, we serve with a clear understanding of our identity, not as victims, nor to repay a debt, nor to secure a job. This is why Jesus served with authority, and we serve with His authority and delegated power. A study of the Hebrew and Greek words for power has helped me realize that it is the capacity given by God to fulfill His purposes. This power sustains, achieves, and builds; it is a tool of the Holy Spirit that works in believers, enabling them to serve others out of love without imposing or dominating.

Serving is not simply about doing something in hopes of receiving something in return. It is about reflecting the heart of the Creator, who sustains the universe through transformative service that builds up and gives life. Are we aware of this truth? How does this understanding change our perspective on service?