Mission Briefing
The Night Jesus Got on His Knees
Picture this: the night before the most important moment in history, Jesus – the Son of God – gets down on His knees with a basin of water and starts washing His disciples’ dirty feet. It was the most surprising thing a leader had ever done. And then He said: now YOU do the same. This mission explores John 13:14-15.
What Does John 13:14-15 Mean?
In Jesus’ day, washing feet was the job of the lowest servant in the house – it was considered embarrassing for anyone of status to do. Jesus was the Lord and Teacher, the highest one in the room, and He chose the lowest job to show His disciples what real leadership looks like: it’s not about being served, it’s about serving. Then He gave them – and us – a direct command to follow His example.
Hero Challenge
This week, do a “foot-washing moment” – pick a job that no one wants to do or that feels beneath you, and do it cheerfully. Maybe it’s cleaning the bathroom, picking up someone else’s mess, or carrying something heavy for someone. The more awkward or humble it feels, the more it looks like what Jesus did. Be a foot-washer!
Did You Know?
When Jesus began washing feet at the Last Supper, Peter tried to stop Him and said, “You shall never wash my feet!” It was that shocking. But Jesus told Peter that if he didn’t allow it, he’d have no part with Him. Receiving humble service from Jesus is also part of following Him – we have to be willing to both serve AND be served with humility.
Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question
Jesus did the humble job of washing feet to show love. What is one humble job you can do today to show love to your family?
Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question
Why do you think Jesus chose to wash feet – the dirtiest, most humble job – instead of doing something more impressive to show He was in charge?
Ages 10-13: Champion Question
Jesus says He gave us an “example” to follow. Is it possible to be a leader AND a servant at the same time? Who are some people in your life who model that?
♥ Mission Prayer
Jesus, thank You for getting on Your knees to serve us even when You were the greatest in the room. Help me to be a servant leader who looks for ways to humbly help others. Amen.
