This short phrase, taken from one translation of John 13 verse 4 recently reminded me of a story told by a friend whose husband was a Baptist church pastor. The fabric committee was meeting one evening and was concerned about the state of the baptistry and thought it would look much better if it were painted. No one seemed very enthusiastic about doing it, and then one member said, “Well, the pastor can do it, that’s part of his job”. So, the pastor was advised of their decision.
Now I don’t imagine that task was included in his Job Description, probably wouldn’t have been discussed in any interview, and I doubt he would have considered covering that as part of his job when invited to “preach with a view” – a term used in some denominations as part of an assessment of suitability for the post.
To his credit, and without questioning the decision, that man not only painted the baptistry but made a good job of it. I don’t know if the congregation was informed of the decision or the successful outcome, but if I had been a member of that committee that made the decision, I think I would have listened to the pastor with greater respect.
John 13 verses 14 and 15 continue with Jesus’ words – “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you”.
I never cease to be amazed, in the churches I attend, to notice the many, sometimes menial, tasks that are undertaken by people who often do so uninvited and anonymously.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for the examples of humility demonstrated by Your Son Jesus. Help us not only to be amazed by this but follow His example. AMEN.