Following the Leader

    There's a verse in the Word that says we as believers are "ambassadors for Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:20, NKJ). An ambassador is a representative of something--usually a nation. Our being called to be ambassadors for Jesus Christ means that we're supposed to be living representatives of Him, showing the world what God's character is like and how He leads us.
    Man, can saying that be a lot easier than doing it.
    It's not impossible. But hasn't everyone had one of those moments when they've wanted to give a rudely sarcastic person a piece of their own medicine? Or just frown--dare I say glare?--at someone when they're behaving disrespectfully and obnoxiously? It's not righteous to do those things, but the temptation's like a massive itch on the inside. And the fact that lots of other people around us and characters in books and movies lash back at offenders doesn't really help either.
    But the fact is, Jesus Christ didn't do those kind of things. He lived a completely righteous life, speaking and behaving peaceably. He selflessly healed countless people when He had to have been getting tired, had patience with His disciples when they made mistakes, and at His crucifixion . . . He let people insult Him, slander Him, and even hit Him, but He never hit back. He never got bitter. He didn't get into arguments with every person who hurled an insult at Him. He held back His power and never lost His temper. And that takes an immeasurable amount of strength to do.
    Along with His pure words, His conduct speaks volumes of righteousness, forgiveness, and genuine love for humanity. So in conclusion, as representatives of Him, it'd be extremely wise to look at Him and follow His example. To do as Paul suggested in 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NKJ): "Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ."