John 13:16
Amen, amen, I say to you, no slave is greater than his master, nor any messenger greater than the one who sent him.
In Jesus's time, the host of a house would welcome his weary guests by offering a basin of cool water for their visitor's feet. Today we have state of the art sandals and footwear, but 2000 years ago, with walking being the primary mode of transportation, feet became sore. So the household servant would take care of the visitors by caring for their feet with water and oils. Jesus greeted his guests and began to wash their feet. His disciples said, paraphrasing "no our master should not do this." Jesus the instructed them to wash one another's feet. He was trying to teach them at a deeper level, that each person is equal, that society should not value the life of one over another. We do, but we shouldn't.
This passage is a good model for many businesses and families. The leader has authority over the staff, but should not elevate himself or herself so that they think they are better or above a task. They will get more respect, love and honor by doing the task that others don't want to do than asking another employee. "I wouldn't ask you to do something that I myself wouldn't do," is a mantra worth living.
The comparison of a slave over a master is also puzzling. Jesus knew he wouldn't be here for long on earth, and knew that others would teach and preach on his behalf. Those working in the church should never elevate themselves or put themselves on a pedestal. They are the messenger for God, not God themselves. People in high places can fall much harder if they put themselves that high. Pray for our priests, clergy and teachers for humility and a servant heart today. This includes you.
