“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Jesus Christ.”
I Corinthians 11:1
The story is told of a Christian serving in the armed forces who has been home of furlough. He was rushing to catch the train to return to duty, when he ran into a fruit stand on the station platform, knocking most of the piled-up apples to the ground. The young boy who operated the stand tried to pick up his scattered fruit but was having difficulty. The service man stopped, turned around, put down his suitcase and started collecting and picking up the apples. As he picked up the apples he polished each one with his handkerchief and put them back on the stand. So impressed was the boy that he asked, “Soldier, are you Jesus?” With a smile the soldier replied, “No, but I’m trying to be like Him.”
In our scripture verse, Paul is encouraging believers in Christ to follow Christ and in their lives be an example of Him. Every day we encounter people that need Jesus in their lives. They need His love, forgiveness, the joy, peace and hope that he can give and the eternal life that He offers. In our daily lives we need to be like Jesus in our words, actions, acts of kindness and caring for others.
In applying this verse to your life today, think about this question, Would anyone ask you, “Are you Jesus?” Make a list of ways in your life you could imitate or demonstrate Jesus to others. In this world in which you live there will be plenty of opportunities to show WHO Jesus is, what He has done and can DO for their life through your life. Demonstrate this week the DAILY HOPE that you have in Christ through your LIFE!