The Lord Jesus Christ sent ahead Peter and John to prepare for the Passover prayer and meal. (Luke 22:8) They did the preparation quite well but missed one thing. Knowing all of them would have traveled, there should have been a provision to wash the feet of all. The man who showed the furnished hall did not provide the service of a servant or slave to wash the feet. Though uncomfortable, the disciples chose to sit, ready for the meal. Then something dramatic happened. The Lord Jesus Christ “rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” (John 13:4-5) Except for a feeble objection from Peter, none of the disciples volunteered to take the place of a Master-servant, the Son of God. (Philippians 2:7) Peter calls people of God to be clothed with humility. (I Peter 5:5)
Willingness: Humility means to be willing and available to do the least job or service in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Some people are willing to die or suffer, but not ready for humble service. Paul writes, what is the use of giving the body to be burnt, without love? (I Corinthians 13:3)
Dependence: Humility means to be dependent on God. One should confess, be aware, and act with total dependence realizing that without Him he or she is nothing. (John 15:5)
Ignored: It means to be ignored, bypassed, or boycotted by others. Not being hurt in those situations when your presence or contribution is not recognized. A worker is worthy of wages. Yet, it is not given in this imperfect world.
Others-Centered: It is to bless others, not self-hating or self-destructive, but self-giving. Humble people rejoice and do not envy when others are successful, progress, and prosper. “When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we entreat.” (I Corinthians 4:12-13)
Am I clothed with humility?