“Whose ‘Role Model’ Are You?” Sandra Fischer
“Whoever serves me must follow me. . .“ John 12:26a (NIV)
A famous American athlete responded to the contention that he is a role model by claiming, “I am not a role model.” He didn’t want to be one, but nonetheless, he is. In fact, everyone is a role model for someone. The parent is one to his child, the teacher to the student, the employer to the employee, the pastor to the congregate, the government leader to the citizen, and the athlete to the sports fan. It’s not whether we are role models or not; it’s about what kind we are or want to be.
The greatest role model of all time, to all people, is Jesus. More than anyone, he understood the importance of who he was and what he meant to the world. He didn’t shrink from being the ultimate role model; he gave his life to save ours. His directive was clear, and he was explicit about what it means for those who choose to follow him. He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life” (John 8:12b NIV) What an encouragement! At the same time, Jesus is forthcoming about all it means to follow him. “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. (Mark 8:34 NIV)
The apostle Paul emulated Christ in his life and declared the principle of role modeling to believers, “Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV) It’s true. If we follow Jesus, we will model the best to anyone looking to us as theirs.
“Father, help me through your Spirit to model Christ.”
Sandra is a Faithwriters Platinum member, author of “Seasons in the Garden.” Contact |
