Leaving a Trail of Love
As Jesus so poignantly put it, “All people will know that you are my followers if you love each other” (John 13:35, NCV). This simple yet profound statement gets to the heart of what it means to be a disciple.
Following in the Footsteps of Others
Have you ever watched a young child try to follow in their parent’s footsteps? It’s a comical yet endearing sight. The little one stretches their legs as far as they can, attempting to match their parent’s stride. And what does the parent do? They adjust their pace, taking shorter steps to make it easier for their child to follow. This tender moment captures the essence of discipleship.
A Trail of Guidance
In our faith journey, we’re not pioneers blazing a new trail. We’re followers, walking in the footsteps of those who have gone before us. We’ve all had someone who has inspired and guided us along the way – a parent, teacher, mentor, or hero. And as we grow in our faith, we must remember that we’re not just following others, but also leaving footprints for those who come after us.
Guiding Others on the Journey
As we walk the path of discipleship, we must be mindful of those who are following us. Are we taking strides that are too long, leaving others struggling to keep up? Or are we intentionally taking shorter steps, ensuring that those behind us can follow our lead? We have a responsibility to guide and support those who are walking behind us, just as others have guided and supported us.
The Principle of Discipleship
This is the principle of discipleship – following in the footsteps of others while also leaving a trail of love and guidance for those who come after us. It’s a cycle of mentorship, where we’re both the follower and the leader, leaving a lasting impact on those around us. By embracing this principle, we can create a ripple effect of love and kindness that resonates throughout our communities and beyond.
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