And you should follow my example, just as I follow Christ’s.  

• 1 Corinthians 11:1

     What?   At first reading of this passage I am always struck with the overwhelming feeling that I am not worthy.   Paul you are the man.  Then I find myself thinking who in their right mind would make such a statement as is found in 1 Corinthians 11:1.   Really, does Paul really mean follow me guys as I follow Christ?  Does he really mean if you follow what I am doing then you will be doing what Christ wants you to do.?  Really, I have found myself at times thinking how in the world that applies to me.  Am I to live my life in such a way that people around me could do what I do and honor Christ with their lives?   The answer is yes.  God has called us to live our lives in such a way that brings glory to Him in all things - in everything we do.   I found this thought to be overwhelming at times but we need not ever forget that the life that we live as Paul would say is no longer ours.   In chapter 6 verses 19-20 Paul talks about the fact that our “body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God.  You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price.  So you must honor God with your body.”  The reason Paul could say follow me was because he knew he was no longer his own, he was called by God filled and empowered by the Holy Spirit living in him to be an example to the world in which he lived. 

 So we to need to start taking our decisions and actions in life more seriously because people are watching and we have the power to lead them towards Christ or away from Him.   So take heart and know that you are given a wonderful gift in Christ and through the power of His Spirit you can live your life in such a way that helps others know Christ.   If this thought seems too overwhelming that’s ok because God is the one doing the work through us to help our families our friends and our world know the way to follow Christ our Lord.   

 

Rusty Sieck