The Order of the Towel

Leadership is a fascinating topic. Business books offer models of leadership ranging from Attila the Hun to Abraham Lincoln. But Jesus painted a different picture of leadership.

As he wrapped up his work, Jesus held a dinner for his closest associates. Instead of delivering a state-of-the-union address or naming a successor, he chose to leave his seat at the head of the table and pick up a basin of water and a towel, the equipment of a household servant. He then washed the feet of every person at the tableeven Judas, his betrayer (John 13: 1-20). Foot washing was usually performed by household servants as an act of hospitality to weary, dusty guests. Leaders and hosts did not stoop to such a menial task. But Jesus did.

Seated once again at the table, the Lord asked his followers whether they understood what he had done (John 13:12). He then told them to take the same posture of serving others, and in this way follow his example. He assured them that they would be blessed if they did (John 13:15-17).

Jesus still calls believers today to become members of the Order of the Towel. As Christs followers, we need to lead others by serving them.

When Jesus washed his disciples feet (John 13:3-5) he demonstrated a fundamental principle that he regularly stressed to his followers: If you want to lead others, you have to serve others. This is as true in public life and the business world as it is in the church. No number of corporate memos or rah-rah speeches urging workers to commit themselves to an organization or to its clients will have as powerful an impact as when a person of authority models consistently and clearly the attitude of a servant: placing others needs before ones own, doing concrete things to meet those needs, and not looking for benefits in return.