We are Called to Lead by Example

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV

In a heartwarming story titled “Blind Baltimore runner conquers NYC Marathon at age 66” published Tuesday, the writer reported that Jackie King, 66, finished the New York Marathon over the weekend with the help of guides from the Achilles Running Club in just over five hours, marking her fifth marathon completion. The UMBC alum and employee was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa in 2017, a genetic condition that gradually deteriorates the retina.

"I felt accomplished. I felt like, Wow, I did that because my goal was never to set a time. My goal is to finish well, and I finished well," King said….Despite her vision loss, King continues running with the support of guides who provide verbal cues during races.

"The two guys that I ran with for New York, one was on my right, one was on my left, and they will say, 'Jackie, come to your left, Jackie high knees, Jackie a little bit to your right,'" King said. At UMBC, where King serves as associate director of the U-RISE program, she mentors undergraduate STEM students. Jessica Hoffman, a UMBC senior, finds inspiration in King's determination.

"She not only overcomes challenges, but she exceeds expectations, I think, in a lot of ways. And so I think as students that's really inspiring because you want to hear from your mentor that, you know, they want you to succeed, but also it's amazing to see your mentor succeed," Hoffman said. Talk about leading by example!

Speaking of leading by example, if a person were to imitate you, can you confidently say that they would be imitating Christ? This is a very important question since, as believers, we are to be like Christ. Paul was so confident that his life reflected Jesus that he didn’t hesitate to say to the Corinthian Christians, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
Now this didn’t mean that Paul was perfect. None of us will be 100% like Jesus this side of heaven. What it did mean though, is that the sum of Paul’s life indicated that he was a follower of Jesus Christ. The way he walked and the way he talked showed that he loved the Lord with all his heart, mind, body, and soul.

“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

And while it's true we must all ultimately look to Jesus for our example, this world (much like the ones in Paul’s day) needs modern day examples. It needs men and women who exhibit the attributes, attitudes, and actions of Jesus to help them discover the way to true freedom and salvation. Sadly, few people today are able and willing to say what Paul said. Instead, because of compromise and ungodliness, they are quick to say, “Don’t look at me, look at Jesus.” And look at where that has gotten us! With fewer and fewer godly examples to follow, countless people turn to singers, rappers, actors, and social media influencers as their examples to follow. 

“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children.” Ephesians 5:1

But the Bible is very clear that each and every true believer is called to “follow God’s example… ” In this way, we will be shining lights in a dark world. Paul strove to follow God in every area of his life and, therefore, knew he was a good example to imitate. He also knew that it was not “Paul” who was a worthy example, but “Paul the follower of Jesus” who was the example—setting a limit and a direction on the way we imitate others. Just as I also imitate Christ (NKJV) has the idea of “follow me as much as you see me following Jesus.”

Of the importance of having Christ-like examples to follow, Puritan William Bates wrote, “Precepts instruct us what things are our duty, but examples assure us that they are possible… When we see men like ourselves, who are united to frail flesh and in the same condition with us, to command their passions, to overcome the most glorious and glittering temptations, we are encouraged in our spiritual warfare.”

So, seek to be so much like Jesus my friend that you can confidently say to others, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." In a world in desperate need of godly role models, you'll make an indelible mark on those around you that will have ripple effects for generations to come. 

Heavenly Father, please help us to be like You that we might shine like stars in a dark world. Lord, in a world filled will role models that are leading people astray, help us to understand why it’s so important for us to follow your example so that we would lead the lost to You and they would find the true freedom, salvation, and purpose that’s only found in You.  It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!