ON THE VANGUARD

FOLLOW THE LEADER
"Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." I Corinthians 11:1

When I was around the age of 12, my parents gave me a great responsibility. As one of the big brothers, my job was to ensure then that my 8 year old sister would be at the bus stop on time. Well it took only a few missed buses before I finally had a brainstorm of how to accomplish this. True with most children, curiosity and slow walking were our failure. So I took it upon myself to compose an idea that would grab her attention. The next day we played Follow the Leader. Knowing how much time we had, she followed my example of skipping, walking, waving hands, and when needed, running. By the time we got to the bus stop, we had time to spare. This idea worked so well that it became a daily game, everyday changing the actions some, and everyday making it to the stop on time.
I've read this verse many times over the years, and my mind always reverts back to those days of Follow the Leader. It wasn't that it was a magical game, but it was more that it kept my interest as a player and a leader for what actions were coming next. As I reflect on these days and consider the words of Paul, I can't help but think the same thing. The city of Corinth at this time was filled with fornication and every evil sinful act possible. When Paul wrote to the Corinthians, his message was about immorality, marriage, standard practices, communion, and the resurrection of Christ. In his stance for the truth in these matters, Paul wrote the bold words, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ."
Follow the Leader, though, is never a one person game. Infact, following Christ is not even a one person game. Amos 3:3 questions, "Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?" The Leader, Christ, is always willing to play and is looking for those who will join Him in the game. There will be times of running, skipping, walking, but also times of showing compassion when we would rather not, blessing others when we are in need of a blessing ourselves, and dieing to Christ daily when we feel He is asking too much. The question then becomes, will we play this game with Him?
My sister was too young to know the point behind my method of the game. To her, it was just fun: to me, it was my responsibility of making sure she was on time. But you and I are old enough now to see that we are being beckoned to play this game, knowing the reason. The point is not hidden from us. It goes two ways, us following Christ, and us being an example or leader for others. The challenge I leave with you is this. Are you willing to follow His example in your life? Sure, it might mean giving up things. It might mean letting go of hindrances and sins that you are attached to. But isn't it worth it, following God into a life of freedom? And isn't it worth it to others you influence in so doing, to bring them closer to Christ as well because of your example as the leader?