The Final Hour
The Final Hour
“It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” John 13:1-5 NIV
This passage gives us a clear picture of what leadership should look like.
In this moment Jesus stood at the highest place of authority… and He chose the lowest place of service. Not to prove something, but to prepare them for what was coming.
His last instruction was showing them to accept the new position of leadership. With a heartfelt farewell, Christ gives this command in the form of quiet service. The time had come for responsibility to shift.
The student was becoming the shepherd.
“He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.” John 13:6-11 NIV
Jesus washed their feet knowing one would betray Him. This wasn’t just about humility. It was about preparation.
He knew his death would shake them and He knew his resurrection would change them.
They would soon carry what He had been carrying.
“When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “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. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” John 13:12-17 NIV
This moment was more than one last act of service. It was a transition. A recognition of the position they now held—and the responsibility that came with it.
Every leader eventually reaches the final hour—whether they realize it or not.
A last season.
A last assignment.
A last opportunity to prepare the people around them.
The final hour doesn’t reveal who is in authority—it reveals what was most valuable.
Reflect
What do you truly value—in your home, your work, and your leadership?
Who are you intentionally preparing to carry what you now hold?
Where can you shift from directing others… to developing them?
Prayer
Lord, teach me to lead with responsibility, not position. Help me to invest in people, not just outcomes. May those entrusted to me be stronger, wiser, and more faithful because I served them well. And when my time comes, let what remains bring You glory. Amen.
