Follow in His footsteps

"To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps." 1 Peter 2:21

The Bible makes it clear that following Jesus will not be a path free of suffering. This can sound rather daunting, however I believe that one of the greatest words in this verse is "example". We don’t just blindly walk down the path of life alone, we are following the example of the one who has not only gone before us but now also walks alongside us.

This can be incredibly hard to see when we ourselves are walking through pain and sadness. The road can seem dark and the light can be only a small flicker ahead, if there at all.  

In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus himself shared with his closest friends that he was “Overwhelmed with sorrow” (Matthew 26:38). When we see Jesus in the midst of sorrow we can be reminded that he has experienced the depths of life and that we follow in the footsteps of Immanuel, God with us. 

The road ahead may lead us by still waters and sunny fields or it may become rocky and dark for a time. Even when our steps are uncertain, he has promised to be our guide. We walk a path already navigated by the saviour of the world.

So today whether you are walking a road of sorrow or joy, or somewhere in between, be encouraged to follow as you walk and continue to get to know the one who walks beside you.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, today help us to see you with us in each moment. May we hear your voice when we feel alone, see your steps when we feel lost and share your heart of joy. Give us strength to also walk alongside others, faithfully following your example. Amen

By Katharine Wright