S – Jesus knew that the Father had given everything into his hands, that he had come from God, and that he was going back to God. ⁴ So he got up from supper, laid aside his outer clothing, took a towel, and tied it around himself

John 13:3–4 CSB

O – Commentrary:

Jesus’ removing his outer garments to serve them would also appear as a sign of great humility before them.

By so serving, Jesus prefigures his death as the suffering servant of Isaiah 53 on behalf of the many. Jesus’ milieu celebrated honor and feared shame. Unlike most elite men in Greco-Roman society, Judaism valued humility; but like other societies, it also upheld societal roles. Jesus overturns even positions of social status. Rabbi Judah ha-Nasi (about a.d. 220) was said to be so humble that he would do anything for others—except relinquish his superior position; seating according to rank was crucial. Jesus goes beyond even this…Jesus’ act violates cultural status boundaries so thoroughly (see comment on 13:3–5) that Peter finds it unthinkable.

The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament

A – One of my favorite moment in the Bible – Jesus knows God gives him all authority over everything and the first thing he does is serve.  What a great reminder for us that all of us are called to serve.  As you progress through the crucifixion story, understand that Jesus has all authority.  He never called down angels or spiritual forces to stop the physical attack on his body.  His actions that started in serving ended in total sacrifice of his entire life.  What a picture for us.

A – Heavenly Father, you the sacrifice that takes away the sin of the world.  Thank you for your love for us so great that you would serve and sacrifice for us.  We do not deserve it.  We love you.