“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” – I Corinthians 11:1
As disciples, we must be faithful in living and exemplifying the Word for others to see God in us. It is not enough to read the Word, nor just hear the Word. In essence, we should be “imitators of Christ” (1 Corinthians 1:11). As Christians, we also show our faithfulness by being obedient to the Word and in servitude to others.
Remember, Christ was relational. When the disciples wanted to send the crowds away (Matthew 14:15 NKJV), Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” (Matthew 14:16 NKJV) When the disciples wanted the children to go away, Jesus replied, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14 NIV) To be imitators of Christ we must be relational. We must become like Christ in all that we do and speak.
Keep in mind there are several ways to be a relational disciple. These are a few things you can do: share the Gospel – the Good News; share disciplines that the person can use to grow a closer relationship with God; be kind and compassionate; be a good listener; pray with the person. To be devoted to an ongoing, meaningful life of discipleship we must share the Gospel – the Good News. It is not about our deeds or what we do for God. It is about what Jesus Christ has done for us through His life, death, and resurrection.
O, Divine One, thank you for Your gift to us…Your Son, Jesus, who points the way to You in all that He does and speaks. Thank YOU for being WHO YOU ARE, The GREAT I AM. I know that with YOU all things are possible. I thank You for Your Grace and Mercy that You give every day. I thank You for Your unconditional love. Equip me, Lord, to be devoted to an ongoing, meaningful life of discipleship. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Effie McGill is a Deaconness and Certified Lay Minister, and a member of Galilee UMC in Laurinburg.