John 13:15
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I
have done to you.
Today, let us explore the life and teachings of Jesus
Christ, whose footsteps we strive to follow. From humble beginnings in
Bethlehem, Jesus' life was a testament to God's omnipotence and unfathomable
love for mankind. Born in a humble manger, Jesus' life serves as a reminder
that God's ways are not our ways. Despite His divine origin, Jesus grew up in a
modest environment, showing us that material wealth is not a measure of God's
favour or our worth.
Jesus began His ministry after being baptised by John the
Baptist. He spent three years preaching, teaching, healing, and showing God's
love to all who would listen. His teachings were revolutionary, challenging the
religious and social norms of His time and laying the foundations of the Christian
faith as we know it today.
One of the vital messages Jesus taught us about was love. In
Matthew 22:39, he states, "Love your neighbour as yourself."
This commandment, second only to loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind,
is fundamental to Christ's teaching. He calls us to love unconditionally, just
as God loves us, without bias, prejudice, or judgement.
Another invaluable principal Jesus taught was humility. In
Matthew 23:12, He says, "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and
whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Jesus Himself showed this
virtue, descending from His heavenly glory to live among us, and washing His
disciples' feet, a task customarily reserved for servants.
Jesus also preached about forgiveness, a divine attribute
that He displayed even on the cross. His words in Luke 23:34, "Father,
forgive them, for they know not what they do" serve as a poignant
reminder of the depth of His mercy and our calling to forgive those who have
wronged us.
Jesus underscored the significance of faith. In Matthew
17:20, He declares, "I tell you the truth. If you have faith as small
as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and
it will move." Jesus' miracles were often prefaced with the reassurance
of faith from those he healed, reminding us to trust in the Lord's providence
and care.
Finally, Jesus taught us the essence of service and
sacrifice. He sacrificed His life on the cross, enduring unspeakable pain and
suffering for our salvation. In Mark 10:45, He declares, "For even the
Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a
ransom for many." This ultimate act of service underscores our call to
serve others selflessly.
In sum, Jesus' life and teachings serve as a guiding compass
for us, pointing us towards love, humility, forgiveness, faith, service, and
sacrifice. As we navigate through life's challenges, let us strive to embody
these principles, spreading Christ's love and light to all we encounter. May the
peace of Christ, which transcends all understanding, guard your hearts and
minds as we journey together in faith. Amen.