“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 13:3-5
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Travon Walker was the biggest, strongest and fastest athlete on his basketball and football teams at Upson-Lee High School in Thomaston, Georgia (about 80 miles south of Atlanta). Recently, his No. 44 jersey was retired at the school. During his high school years, his time at the University of Georgia, and now as an outside linebacker for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Walker has been one of the most outstanding performers on and off the field.
His parents taught him to do everything in an excellent manner, to put God first and to stay humble regardless of how successful he becomes. Some of Travon’s work ethic comes from his father being a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, but his mother has always talked with him about not getting wrapped up in his own importance. She still reminds him to take time for people who helped him get where he is today.
He now runs the Travon Walker Foundation, which is committed to empowering youth to reach their full potential. He recently hosted a summer football camp and will soon be putting on a Thanksgiving Turkey Drive in Thomaston.
In a world where self-absorption is common, Walker inspires us to thank God for our talents, use them for His glory, and find ways to help others. This is the model set by the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the opposite of self-absorption. He was about serving others.
When the 12 disciples argued about which of them was the greatest (Luke 9), Jesus spoke to them about serving others as a spiritual leader. Then he demonstrated humble service by washing their feet and challenging them to serve one another, as well as people outside their comfort zone. Even though Jesus lived on a higher level than anybody before Him or after Him, He did one of His greatest works when He stooped low like a servant.
“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 13:3-5
As Jesus did so, He shocked His disciples because they never saw servant leadership like that. Jesus’ words and actions perfectly aligned, and His demonstration of what is most important speaks to every generation. As Christians, we follow Christ if we also serve others unselfishly.
— Bill Kent, Pastor of Memorial Baptist Church, Sylvania, Georgia
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