Thought for the week: Influenced by those gracious in life and speech but also full of wisdom
Most of us are not keen to be thought of as role models, someone whom others could, perhaps should, imitate. To even think like that, or suggest it, would be taken as arrogant, and completely at odds with the need for due humility before God and other people.
Yet, perhaps surprisingly, this is not the whole Biblical picture.
For example, the Apostle Paul said: "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ" (1 Corinthians 11.1). And he went further by telling his friend Timothy to "Set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." And indeed, in his letter to Titus, he told him: "Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works".
St Paul is absolutely clear that his desire to be a role model himself, and his call for others to do the same, was entirely based on helping non-believers come to faith in Christ. No self-interest or seeking to make a name for himself. No seeking of praise or status. No need for congratulations or back slapping. Simply, honouring Christ alone in his lifestyle, attitudes, decisions and words.
It is hard to overstate the importance of that outlook on life in today’s world where so much value is given to the wealthy; the successful; the powerful; the celebrity. And yet, all too often, that valuing is eventually seen as misplaced and sometimes really disastrous.
Though it must also be said that it is important to properly appreciate people when great things are done. God has given us many gifts, and when they are used well, credit and thanks are certainly due.
For ordinary people like you and me who are far away from that glossy world of fame, success and fortune, we need to take great care to be aware of the huge dangers to ourselves and our families that can lurk on social media.
When it beckons, and gets our attention, it drives us to want as many ‘likes’ as possible for what we post on Instagram, Tik Tok, X or Facebook. It is so important to remember that success on social media does not bring salvation our way.
My own experience over the years is that the people who have had, and still are having the greatest and best influence on me, are people who are humble, yet rigorous in integrity; who are gracious in life and speech, but also full of the wisdom which so often comes out of their understanding of the scriptures and their thoughtful prayer lives; who care deeply for others and go out of their way to be a channel of the grace of God to those in need or difficulty.
These are the people who have taken seriously those words of St Paul about being examples and role models, but would probably be horrified if they were described that way.
The question inevitably arises. Are you and I worth imitating - for the Lord's sake?