As Christians, we are called to walk in Jesus' footsteps and be reflections of His light to those lost in spiritual darkness. In 1 Peter 2:21, Peter writes: "For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps".
This verse also pertains to us, as it is the attitude we are led by the Spirit to project. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are guided into being more like Jesus. The light of Jesus shines through us to draw others to follow Him. In becoming more like Jesus, we reflect His servant's heart and servant's spirit. This "Christ likeness" is essential for true spirituality to be shown in our lives.
In following Jesus' footsteps, we should be examples of "Christ like" forgiveness. Notice what Jesus did as he suffered in pain on the cross. He did not threaten those hurting Him or promise to get revenge. He forgave them (Luke 23:34). When we are insulted or offended, instead of seeking revenge we should follow in Jesus' footsteps and forgive.
We should also be examples of "Christ like" service to others. Although Jesus had many reasons to lord His authority over people, He did not. He was the "Good Shepherd" to the flock of God. Jesus was the ultimate example of a servant leader. Jesus' servant heart should be reflected in our service to others. A heart that shows we have a sincere desire to serve rather than be served. Since that was Jesus' way of service, it should be ours as we follow in His footsteps.
A "Christ like" hunger to show the love and mercy of God to those who are desperately in need is also what we should exhibit. How willing was Jesus to offer God's gift of salvation to a lost and dying world? Willing enough to suffer and die on Calvary's cross for us. There should be the same type of concern in us for the souls of the unsaved and unchurched. We should have an undying willingness to share the good news of the Gospel. We should be willing to humble ourselves in order to elevate others spiritually to God's calling for them. Jesus did, and if we are following in His footsteps so should we.
The world is watching us. What kind of examples are our actions setting? We must be careful of what we do and say. Our witness for Jesus can be tainted due to bad examples we set. How can we point others to Jesus when our actions and behavior indicate we are not following in His footsteps? Our bad examples are detrimental to those who are in need of spiritual directions.
But if we continue to walk in the Spirit and allow it to lead us each day, we will continue in Jesus' footsteps and we will continue to lead others to follow Him.
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