Concordia Seminary Graduates Staff Photo
2 Samuel 2:12-3:39; John 13:1-30; Psalm 119:1-16; Proverbs 15:29-30
“When he [Jesus] had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done for you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.” John 13:12-15
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Last night graduates of Concordia Seminary received their diplomas, but before doing so they were exhorted by the Commencement Speaker, Joseph Gorder, CEO of Valero Energy Corporation, to be humble servants of God; to be willing to be held accountable by wise members of the churches they will serve; and to actively engage team members in doing the Lord’s work wherever they go. He himself had been “served” by exemplar pastors throughout his business career. For them he was truly thankful.
Jesus gave the most eye-opening example of servant-hood as he knelt at the feet of his disciples, wiping off the road grime– a job meant for the lowliest servant in a household. He, the Son of God, whose Word created the universe, humbly did the work of a servant which the disciples would understand only after Christ’s death and resurrection.
They would remember that night in the upper room when their Teacher’s head bowed low before them–and later when this same head bowed its last on the Cross–the Servant Lamb who took their place, paying for the price for their sins before God Almighty.
Jesus knelt before us as well and bids us to follow His example of serving others, that they may know Whom we serve.
Lord Jesus, thanks and praise be to You whose serving brought us life and forgiveness; whose example bids us to do the same out of love and gratitude. May we always remember who attitude and posture of servanthood that we may follow in your ways to the glory of your Holy Name! Bless the newly graduated foot-washers and lead them on to their new duties joyfully and in your Name. For Jesus’ sake we pray, Amen.
“Blessed are you, O Lord;
teach me your statutes!
With my lips I declare
all the rules of your mouth.
In the way of your testimonies
I delight as much as in all riches.
I will delight in your statutes.
I will not forget your words.”
Psalm 119:12-16
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