Role Model – July 25, 2024

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:7,8

Role Model

In 1991, the beverage company Gatorade released a commercial called “Be Like Mike” featuring basketball superstar Michael Jordan. Highlights of Michael Jordan dunking and shooting were followed by videos of children imitating his moves and even playing against Jordan.

The commercial was brilliant because it harnessed the wishful desires of many who viewed Jordan as a role model and imagined what it would be like to have that kind of basketball skill. They wanted to be like him, and so they imitated him.

The writer of the Book of Hebrews states the idea of imitation is a sound one. But instead of setting your sights on a sports superstar or celebrity, change your gaze. Imitate the everyday life of the leaders who have modeled for you a Christ-filled life and taught you the gospel truth.

Model the prayer life of the old bedridden widow who prays constantly. Imitate the couple who would sooner miss breakfast than an opportunity to worship in church. Be like the brothers and sisters who give of themselves in the love of Christ.

Are these people perfect? Of course not. But they don’t have to be. They put their faith in the One who is perfect for them and never changes. Leaders come and go. Role models pass away. But what they taught and believed remains the same: Jesus Christ.

Jesus has kept every single one of his promises. Remember your spiritual leaders and role models. Jesus remained faithful to them until the end. Jesus will remain faithful to you always. He will keep every promise to you and does not change. His promises do not waver. His love never fails.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for the gift of spiritual leaders and role models. Help me to imitate their faith. May I always find comfort in your changelessness. Amen.