You’ve heard it. “That’s not the way we do it around here”. We have habits, traditions and unwritten rules. For some it is the style of music. For others, it is the arrangement of the furniture. Others have a command and control leadership style borrowed from a failing secular model. Some feel a particular style of dress in required. Still others argue and debate whether a church should provide a service to the neighboring community. These are traditions and habits. Christ challenged these customs when He showed a caring and humble attitude while demonstrating His love to His disciples.
In Christ’s day walking was the mode of transportation. Think about it. Sandals, sand and dirt all under the hot sun would be very uncomfortable. A long day of walking, talking and teaching would leave your feet sore, dirty, sweaty and probably smelly. According to the culture of the day, when guests came to visit, especially if a meal was involved, the host was expected to provide a servant or slave to wash their feet. The service was expected and appreciated by the guest. However, from the servant’s perspective, kneeling in silence washing feet was considered the lowliest of the lowly tasks.
As an act of service, “Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” (John 13:1 NIV). Christ challenged the tradition and culture of the day. Christ, the teacher, God’s beloved Son, took on the role of the servant and washed His disciples’ feet.
Christ demonstrated His love for his followers, by washing their feet. I’m not recommending you start washing feet. However, it only makes sense that church leaders, Pastors, Board Chairs or corporate CEO’s would use Christ’s example to challenge traditional habits to demonstrate his love for his people.
Leadership is … showing those that you lead the full extent of your love for Christ.
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group
ldkjethrogroup@gmail.com