09/04/2020
*Devotion based on the Anglican lectionary*
Date: *9th April, 2020*
By: *Rev Can Erasmus Ashietey*
*Theme: The Master's Example*
Reading: John 13:15
_For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you_ .
The saying "Leadership by example" among others implies that what the Leader expects his followers to copy or imitate is what he does.
In the education setting, Teachers/Intructors in showing what and how THE IDEAL is arrived at, gives series of demonstrations for learners to hear, see, feel and sometimes smell and taste. This vivid first hand experience is termed, EXAMPLE.
Jesus was a leader and Teacher par-excellence. Most often in his encounter with his followers He uses Parables to induce the examples of lessons he expects his disciples to imitate.
In Today's Gospel, John 13:1-17, 31-35 Jesus himself demonstrates examples of:
1. Love (v 1)
2. Respect (v 4 & 5)
3. Fellowship/Communion - in eating with his disciples (v 4)
4. Humility, service and sacrifice in washing his disciples feet. A task customarily reserved for servants/maids.
Jesus emphasized that He the Master has done all this for his followers as an example for them to emulate.
This example he concludes:
i. Is a command (v 31)
ii. As a form of evangelism (v 35)
As a fellower of Christ, Jesus expects you to Imitate His example. ARE YOU BEING AN EXAMPLE In thought, Word and Deed.
God Bless you and Happy Easter Tide. Amen.