The Towel Before the Title
Scripture
John 13:14
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet.”
Reflection
John tells us that Jesus knew exactly who He was — that the Father had put all things under His power — and then He picked up a towel. Security, not insecurity, is what frees a leader to serve. People who are unsure of their standing grasp for recognition; people who are settled in God's love can kneel without losing anything. The disciples had been arguing about who was greatest. Jesus did not correct them with a lecture. He answered with a basin of water.
Leadership insight
Authority that has to announce itself is usually insecurity in costume. Do the task no one is watching, for the person who cannot repay you.
Prayer
Lord, You held all authority and chose a towel. Free me from needing to be seen. Where I have wanted position, give me a servant's heart. Show me one person to serve today without announcement. Amen.
Today's step
Do one hidden act of service today — something practical, unglamorous, and unannounced. Tell no one.