How low can you go?

Greatness. In the world in which we live, it seems as though everyone is after his or her own piece of greatness. Greatness at work. Greatness in family. Greatness in finances, and most of all greatness in the eyes of others. There is an innate yearning to be highly regarded in the minds of other people, yet, when I read the Bible, Jesus operated without regard for that kind of regard! The question is now, “How low can you go?”

1) Read John 13:1-5

You don’t have to know anything about the Bible, God, or Jesus to realize that something crazy is going on here. After reading that “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power” (NIV), we see Him stoop to serve, like a slave. When you envision God, do you perceive Him as a slave? As a janitor? How does this imagery make you feel about God? Let us know on social media using the #MessageMag. We’d love to hear your thoughts. .

2) Read Philippians 2:5-11;Colossians 1:16; John 13:6-8

Peter reacted in a way that many of us might: “Umm, God? You don’t have to do that.” Jesus knew and knows more than we can ever think. What is crazy is that Jesus didn’t mind getting on the floor and cleaning off the disciples’ feet—the feet of the humanity that He made eons before. What is humility? Tell us your personal definition on social media using #MessageMag.

3) Read John 13:8

There had to be a level of discomfort in what the disciples were experiencing. Someone they had seen perform miracles is getting the dirt from between their toes. When challenged, Jesus says “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” It’s almost as if this uncomfortable situation is supposed to bring them comfort. Jesus is trying to help them experience peace. Has peace ever come to you out of distress? If you are willing to share, we are willing to listen. Share with the #MessageMag on social media and tell us your experience.

4) Read John 14:27

Here Jesus speaks strongly about His personal brand of peace. This peace is one that is experienced when you allow Jesus to love and serve you. He lovingly sacrificed His life to give us a real option of salvation, and He wants, yes, He desires that we serve others in His name. His expectations of us come after He offers us His peace. Does this makes sense to you? If so, share something with us about the peace He has given you. If it does not make sense, we would love to help you understand His offer and how to get it. Reach out to us using #MessageMag.

5) Read Luke 22:14-20

Jesus breaks bread and shares drink with the disciples after washing their feet. Nothing is His own. He has given His time, His service, and His effort. He doesn’t stop there. He concludes with giving a representation of His body and His blood. What more can Jesus give? Well, He would eventually give His life. Since Jesus has given everything, what should we hold back from giving? What do you have that is hard to sacrifice? Tell us using the #MessageMag.

6) Read Luke 22:21-24 John 13:21-23

While Jesus is serving, giving peace, and displaying love, there is someone at the table who has decided to betray Him. If that’s not bad enough, the next conversation the disciples decide to have focuses on which among them would be the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. Yet, Jesus knowing all that was in their hearts decided to not only eat with them, but wash their feet. Could you do it? Could you sit at the table and show exceptional hospitality to people who are going to betray you and undermine your mission? What about take your life?

7) Read Luke 22:25-27

Jesus ruins what everyone believed to be greatness. He shoots down the idea of yearning to build a reputation for yourself. He destroys the pursuit of promotion by pulling others down. He says, in essence, if you want to be high in the Kingdom of Heaven, find out in your actions how low you can go.