Followers Part 2
Favor that draws followers!
In part one of followers, we talked about the baby in the manger. Well, he isn’t a baby anymore. He grew in wisdom, stature, and in favor with God and man.
Jesus knew how to draw followers. He performed miracles and did things no one on earth had ever done. He was intriguing, amazing and different from anyone else. His followers were from various walks of life with different experiences, professions, and characteristics. However, they each made the outrageous decision to follow someone they didn’t really know all that well. Why? Because his actions made them feel connected, loved, and appreciated. He took them on a journey they couldn’t have experienced without him.
Isn’t that what we’re looking for in those we follow? Someone to take us on a journey and show us new and exciting things?
Jesus’ followers were learning things way beyond their pay grade; but Jesus knew how to break things down to them so they could grasp it and flourish as children of God. Following Jesus meant expecting the unexpected, learning to love God completely and love others unconditionally. He wanted them to be kind and offer hope and healing to those they came in contact with, and to walk a selfless life. They were also learning to replicate. Make more followers. Isn’t that what any great influencer wants?
Jesus knows his followers - his sheep. He is the good shepherd. He knows us intimately. Actually, better than we know ourselves. He knows us and yet he still cares and loves. We have all met people we thought we could connect with and love, only to find out information we couldn’t or shouldn’t put up with. But the thing about this influencer, Jesus, is there isn’t anything in our lives he can’t deal with. Nope, nothing. It’s like he’s saying bring it, and then follows up with, is that all you’ve got? That’s what keeps me and so many other ‘Christ Followers’ coming back for more and waiting with bated breath for what he’s going to do next.
So go ahead and follow your favorite people or events. I definitely have my own. Truth be told I want you to follow me. But I want you to follow Jesus even more.
So, consider yourself invited to like and follow JESUS - Son of God.
Luke 2:52, John 10:11; Matthew 11:28&29; Matthew 4:19&20