Black brush lettering on ivory handmade paper: “The love of Jesus teaches our hands how to serve.”

Learning to Serve With a Towel in Your Hands

Sometimes love looks like taking care of a task that needs doing. There is a dish to wash, a spill to clean, or someone who needs help settling in. The opportunity is right there within reach.

I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.

(John 13:15, NIV, excerpt)

Before His death, Jesus rose from the meal, wrapped a towel around His waist, and washed His disciples’ feet. John places this action within Jesus’ love for His own and His knowledge of where He had come from and where He was going. Their Lord and Teacher served them, then instructed them to follow His example by serving one another.

Pick up a useful task

Begin by looking at Jesus. His humble service flows from who He is and the love He has for His people. As we receive His care, we learn a way to care for others.

Choose one needed task today and do it with attention. At home, that might mean sharing work someone regularly carries. At church, it could mean helping a new family find their way or staying to put the room in order.

If you are unsure what would help, ask. Good service pays attention to the actual need and the wishes of the person receiving it.

Let the ordinary work become a prayerful response to Jesus: You have loved us so well. Teach these hands to serve. Small tasks can become meaningful places to practice the love He commands.