Is there anything you have said is beneath you? Something you feel you are either overqualified or just not able to stomach doing? The other day, I found myself digging through a bag of garbage looking for something that I had accidentally tossed the day before, which I did find. The only thing worse would be to dig through garbage and not find what you were looking for. What are some jobs that you feel you could never do? Some that come to mind for different reasons are factory work, working in a packing plant, construction, social work, farm labor, fast food, dishwasher, and others. Usually something that is physically demanding, or requires you to work in extreme conditions is not something that most people seek out. I remember de-tasseling corn in hot, wet, cold, muddy conditions as a teenager and thinking, what am I doing here? Even for me, I enjoy a physical challenge from time to time, but often say, I’m not sure I could do this every day. If you find yourself saying, ‘I could never do that job’, ask yourself why. What tasks are beneath you?
The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Matthew 23:11-12
One of the greatest examples in Scripture of being a servant leader was when Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. He did the most lowly task for those who were ‘beneath’ him. Especially in a culture where status was something that people sought out and was respected, this was something that was likely almost never seen. Our response may have been similar to Peter’s who initially refused him. Yet it was a perfect object lesson for them to learn about their relationship to their Lord. What are things in our daily lives which would shock others if we stooped down to do?
“You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. John 13:13-14
So, before you disparage someone for doing a difficult job, or if they do not meet your high demands, put yourself in their situation and ask what you would have done. Show grace toward those who do not have the same privileges as you or the same opportunities. Take a minute to listen to and/or help someone out who doesn’t expect it today. No one is beneath you and no one is above you, but God.
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:40
Yours in Christ,
Clark
