This past winter after a snowstorm (no school!), our entire family went outside to exercise. First there was the drill of dressing our boys (yes, that took more time than the actual hike), and then we set out into the shin-deep snow.
Like clockwork, our three boys had different approaches to attacking the snow. The middle child bolted ahead to where we couldn’t see him on the trail. The oldest trudged behind about 25 yards, complaining about how cold he was. Meanwhile, the youngest stayed close to Mom and Dad and then begged to be carried after he got snow in his boots. Finally, we got some momentum from all three boys when we said, “Follow in Daddy’s footprints!”
Peter said something similar to a group of persecuted Christians who were suffering for loving Jesus: “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps” (1 Peter 2:21).
Are you trudging through struggles right now? Are you bolting ahead, leaving behind the comfort of your church family? Maybe you’re lagging back in your faith, complaining about the struggle. Or maybe you’re amid the muck and can’t seem to get traction. Peter’s encouragement rings true today: “Follow in Jesus’ steps.”
Dear friend, you step with a Savior who suffered for you so you won’t suffer eternally. He is there to pick you up, ahead of you to lead you, and beside you to carry you. Happy hiking!
