To be at the service of one another is the essential part of Christianity. It offers us an opportunity to show that we love God and appreciate all what God has done for us. Serving one another, gives us a profound sense of humility.
However, the gospel of today is situated within the context of the Last supper, where Jesus demonstrated His love for His followers and offer to serve them in humility. He washed the feet of everyone despite knowing the one who was to betray Him, yet He did not judge him nor condemn him. What Jesus offers to us is love, humility and service. We too ought to do the same to one another.
To be a disciple of Jesus means to be a servant like the master, to reach out to people in love, compassion and kindness. To be a disciple means to be ready for betrayal, rejection, persecution and even death. He empowers us in our weakness, He accompanies us in our loneliness, He welcomes us in our moments of rejection, and He fills us with his joy in our sadness.
Jesus spoke about the relationship between a master and a servant. He said, “I tell you most solemnly, No servant is greater than his master. No messenger is greater than the man who sent him” (John 13:16-20). The duty of a servant is to serve and not to behave like he or she is perfect. The duty of a messenger is to deliver whatever message that was given. Therefore, we are all servants of God. We have the responsibility to serve everyone, even those who do not deserve our services. May God grant us the humility necessary to serve others in love and justice. Peace be with you.
