"Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ." 1 Cor 11:1
The apostle Paul offers himself as an example to a young church in trouble. The church at Corinth was located in the New York City of its day and was subject to the outside influences that could be found there. There were issues with quarreling among members about who they were to follow, shameful incestuous behaviors, lack of concern for the needs of the poor, idolatry and failures in compassion to their fellow human beings. The church that was supposed to be helping others, itself needed help.
Beloved the world should be able to look to those who are members of the Lord's body to understand what love, grace and mercy are all about. It is not suggested for a moment that perfection is involved, but there should be an observable difference when the world looks at Christians. If there is not, how will any be won to him? Why would anyone even believe that God is? Instead, we earn the label of hypocrites for claiming to be one thing and actually being something quite different, something quite like a non-believer.
We have been called to a better way, to better behavior, to better practices and to a better life by He who made us. In so doing, we are called to share this illumination with others who remain in darkness. Paul offers himself as an example of one who was converted from some pretty bad ways to a devout follower of Christ willing to sacrifice all to know him and to share him. Each of us should strive to be able to make that same offer to those with whom we come into contact.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
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