TEXT: A dispute arose among them as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest (Luke 22:24).
Read John 13:1-19.
Here in the upper room is an amazing contrast. Jesus is totally focused on His followers, but all they can think about is themselves. While He is busy reaching out to Judas, teaching each of them about His coming suffering and death for our salvation, and giving them His own body and blood in a new and wonderful testament, all they can think about is their own honor, and which of them should be considered greatest by others.
How often are we so preoccupied with our own honor and glory, our reputation and well-being that we pass by hurting people all around us?
In tomorrow's devotion we will read what Jesus said about this dispute. But today we focus on the action He took in response. As we just read in John's Gospel, Jesus rose from the table without a word. He silently removed His outer garment, wrapped Himself in a towel, then stooped down and began to wash each of their feet like the lowliest household servant. Peter almost prevented Jesus from washing His feet because it seemed so beneath Him.
But Jesus insists. And He teaches them this is not the time for quarreling and arguing about our importance and our fame. It's time to focus on the people around us who need our encouragement, support and attention. More importantly, it's time to focus on Jesus: to contemplate His astonishing love and the tremendous sacrifice He is freely making for us and all people.
THE PRAYER: Lord Jesus, whenever I start to compare myself to others and promote my own recognition and glory, please stop me in my tracks. Remind me that You came as our Servant, submitting like a slave, and now that You have saved me, may I truly serve others in Your Name. Amen.
Today's Bible Readings: Psalms 90 Leviticus 1-2 Mark 5:1-20
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