The other day I was sitting in a third grade class when the teacher handed out a paper that dealt with role models. This paper told about the lives of two iconic sports figures. The first was Michael Jordan and the second was Tiger Woods. Instantly the children began talking because they knew why Tiger has been in the news. After reading this paper the children had to answer a few questions, one of which was, "Which of these two men would you want as your role model?" Instantly a class full of hands went up...
The problem was that many of these children don't really know who Michael Jordan is, but they all know who Tiger Woods is and they had difficulty seeing him as a role model.
This got my attention! Children are watching, looking for someone to step up and be an example for them to follow. They want someone to look up to who they can trust to be an example in every area of life.
In John 13 we find this very humbling story of Jesus as He takes on the role of a servant and washes the feet of His disciples. Then Jesus says these words, "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." Verse 15.
Jesus came to be an example in this life. Showing how we should and can live. Paul in 1 Corinthians 4:16 says, "Therefore I urge you to imitate me." We can also read in Hebrews 13:7, "Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith."
As the children of God, we are called to a higher standard. We are to be the example for others to follow. Paul tells Titus in 2:7-8, "In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us."
