by: Russell McLaughlin

Following in Jesus’ Steps

            In earlier times, it was customary for the dad to hand down his pocket watch to his son in a symbolic gesture of handing down the family heritage to the next generation.  The rite of the passing on of the watch symbolized the passing on of responsibilities to the next generation’s owner.  Every time the new owner used or looked at the watch, he was reminded of the examples that his forefathers had been to him.

            Man has always felt a need to follow others to learn.  Man has always yearned to learn by having others to watch as an example. People have always looked to learn from others.

            Today people look to someone to show them the way to deal with life.  Through God’s word we can be led by someone who walked on this earth and triumphantly dealt with life’s experiences.  Paul says in Romans 8:29, “29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” God designed us to be like Jesus!

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             By reading of Jesus’ life, we can know how to lead a fulfilling and successful life.  Jesus not only invited man to follow in his steps, but he also commanded it.  In John 12:26 Jesus says, “Whoever serves me must follow me…”  Jesus was a servant and wants us to be servants too. Our Lord powerfully illustrates this in John 13:1-17 when he washes the disciple’s feet and calls them to do the same. Jesus says in John 13:15, “For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.” Jesus is counting on us to care and serve! How can you serve someone like Jesus did this week?