“[Jesus] laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” John 13:4–5
Who are the people that James 1:1 says James was actively serving?
God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
James’ main goal was to serve God. This means that God’s wishes were James’ wishes. God’s heart was his heart. God’s loves were his loves. A servant only does what the master tells him and shows him. James loved the fact that his master, Jesus, was the greatest of all.
But here is the really cool thing: we too are called to join James as servants of God. And we serve God in light of the fact that he has served us! Did you know that when Jesus walked the earth, he said that he, God himself, wanted to be primarily identified as a servant? His was the ultimate act of service: dying on a bloody Roman cross in our place.
Read
- How does this scene display Jesus as a servant?
- Why would Jesus do this for his disciples?
- In light of the fact that God has served us so well, what are some ways that you could serve others better?
Pray
Jesus, thank you for serving us so well on the cross. You have also served us well by sending your Holy Spirit to empower us for good works. You have given us all that we need. Help us to love serving you and all those around us. In your name we pray. Amen.
This devotion is adapted from the James Study Guide. Pick up a copy today for only $9.99. The Study Guide includes a 15-week curriculum, a small group study, a group inductive study, as well as 75 daily devotions for your personal or family worship.
