For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sin, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. - 1 Peter 2:21-24
Facing persecution, the early believers were not left on their own without a Model to follow, for ‘Christ also suffered for us, leaving an example, that we should follow in his steps.’
When Peter John was about three years old, we were playing in the snow, and I said, ‘Come on, PJ, follow in my footprints if you can.’ But he couldn’t. My stride was too big.
Folks, to be frank, I look at a verse like this and read that when He was being wrongly, cruelly, terribly treated, Jesus didn’t answer back — and that I am to follow His steps. Yet I know I can’t do this because I want to fight back; I want to let my opinion be known; I want to make sure I’m heard. But here’s the good news: Jesus not only is our Example, but He is our Enabler, not only the Lamb, but also the Shepherd of our souls.
Peter John did indeed follow in my steps that day — as I lifted him into the air and back down again and again so that he could put his feet in each one. He followed in my footsteps because I not only gave him steps to follow, but I enabled him to do so by lifting him up.
That’s what our Lord does. He’s the One Who hoists me up and allows me, if I’ll let Him, to follow in His footsteps when I never could in my own ability. And He’ll do the same for you.
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