DAILY READING
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REFLECTION
Follow the Leader
by Judy Webb
“Then He said to him, 'Follow Me!'” (John 21:19)
Do you remember the days when movie heroes would gather the townsfolk and jump on their horses shouting, “Follow me!”? Then the race was on. The chase to save the town, or the damsel in distress was underway. In the movie, Terminator 2, a memorable line for fans was, “Come with me if you want to live.”
To Follow: to come after, to accept as a guide or leader, to conform to, to comply with, to go in pursuit of, imitate or copy, obey.
Jesus’ calm words to Peter were another memorable moment in history. After allowing Peter the opportunity to confess his love for Jesus and overcome his gnawing conscience following his adamant denial of Jesus just three days ago. Jesus’ command to Peter of “Follow Me” signifies the beginning of a journey of a lifetime.
These words Follow Me are a call to pursue truth. Peter was being transform from a fisherman into a shepherd. “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19)
Love for God is expressed powerfully in committed and obedient service. Sometimes I feel I need to be perfect, or at least better than I am, to follow Him. But actually, it is in following I learn to be more like Jesus. Peter took on his shepherd role in obedience to Jesus’ command and took the lead in steering the Disciples in the way they should go. Make shepherds of them too.
Jesus’ command to Peter has become our call as well. Over 2,000 years later we are still being told to “follow Jesus and live.”
PRAYER PRACTICE
Prayer Journal – To begin your daily worship today, grab a pen and paper and write out a prayer to God about following Him. Praise God for the Resurrection and the call to live forgiven and free. Give thanks to God for all that He gives you each and every day. Decide today to follow him where he leads.
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