True Leadership Looks Like a Towel

This story forces us to reconsider everything we think we know about leadership, importance, and power. Jesus, fully aware of His divine identity (John 13:3), chooses a towel instead of a throne. He shows us that real greatness isn’t about how many people serve you—but how many people you’re willing to serve.

Our culture tends to celebrate the one on the seat—the leader, the influencer, the visionary, the boss. But Jesus shows us the greater value is in who’s willing to wash the feet.

He says it clearly in John 13:14-15:

“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.”

What Does It Mean to Humble Yourself and Serve?

Humbling yourself means stepping beyond ego, title, or convenience. It’s not about thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less. Serving others isn’t about gestures of pity or obligation—it’s a declaration of love.

• It’s forgiving when you have every right to stay angry.
• It’s choosing kindness when someone doesn’t deserve it.
• It’s taking the lowest place so someone else can feel valued.
• It’s washing the feet of the very person who might walk away from you later.

Jesus wasn’t just performing a ritual. He was demonstrating a lifestyle. One where love takes action, not just intention.

Love Wears a Towel, Not a Title

We don’t wash feet literally today, but we have endless opportunities to spiritually and practically live this out. Maybe it looks like:

• Sitting with someone in pain, even when it costs you time.
• Helping someone with no expectation of recognition.
• Letting go of pride in an argument and choosing peace.
• Using your platform or influence to lift someone else up instead of yourself.

In every act of humble service, we mirror Christ. We show that love isn’t about who has the power—it’s about who is willing to lower themselves for another.

The Beauty of Foot-Washing Love

For me, this story will always be a beautiful picture of what it truly means to love one another. It’s not about spotlight moments or grand gestures. It’s about those quiet, sacrificial, messy acts of love where no one else may be looking—but God sees.

Jesus didn’t wait until the cross to love His disciples sacrificially. He loved them all the way to the water basin and the towel. He loved them with His hands, on His knees, in the dirt.

And He says, Go and do likewise.

In the kingdom of God, the highest seat belongs to the one kneeling with the towel. So today, don’t ask, “Who’s in charge?”—ask, “Whose feet can I wash?”