The Bible defines humility as “the fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 22:4).
In Latin, the word is ‘humus’ or ‘of the earth’. We call it soil that is formed by decomposition of leaves and other plant life. Thus, to be humble is to be face down in the dirt, submitting to the authority of another. It implies the person is without personal pride.
The statue shown, is located on the campus of Lincoln Christian University, in Lincoln, IL. It represents humility, as Jesus, during the Passover Festival, washed the feet of his disciples.
The meal was finished. Jesus stood up, removed his outer garments, wrapped a towel around his waist, and then did an amazing thing. He took a basin of water, got down on his knees, and began to wash the disciples’ feet.
Peter, one of the twelve, objected to this act, and cried out, “No – No.” I must wash your feet. Peter wanted to be the servant rather than the guest at the dinner.
Jesus replied, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” Jesus was providing an example of servanthood. His followers were to serve others. There were no servants present at the dinner that evening. The disciples had been so busy, it appears, attempting to see who was #1 and should set closer the the Master, the Teacher, that none had volunteered to be the foot-washer of the guests.
Immediately Peter responded, “Then, Lord, not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” (Reference to the event is found in John 13:1-17) Sometimes impulsive, active individuals overreact a bit. Some of us can’t seem to keep still when action appears to be needed.
LCU wants to emphasize this concept. At graduation, each of the graduating students is handed a towel as he or she receive a diploma. Sometimes the experience is referred to as, The Order of the Towel and the Basin. Hopefully, each recipient will remember they are servants for Christ, as they go forth to spread the Word of God, demonstrating simple, self-less service
The man standing by the statue, is especially moved as he views this model. He had recently spent almost two years totally caring for his wife. He, too, had demonstrated, caring, servanthood, and humility, as he patiently not only fed and clothed her, but also “washed her feet.” Why did he do that? Love is the word. He loved her with all his heart.
Perhaps you may find an opportunity at your church to literally have a “foot-washing” service or, better yet, to practice the concept of servanthood daily wherever you path may go. Let kindness flow from your heart and demonstrate you are willing to do the simplest of tasks for another.
Maybe an elderly neighbor needs help with cleaning the windows, a stumbling student wants help with math problems, or care packages need preparing for needy families. Go forth and volunteer. Some churches invite school youth, with no adult to welcome them home from school, to come by the church for a bite to eat and help with a bothering homework assignment. How can you help?
Open your eyes and spot the perfect job for you, as you attempt to be a servant.
Kathryn Ransom 