Models

Sometimes one needs an example to inspire and lead.  It doesn’t have to be too complicated; an illustration, a simple walk-through, or a working experience.  Occasionally I get photographs from a friend.  Usually it comes with an “I was thinking of you” comment.  I find myself reflecting, wondering, and then looking forward with more intensity.  I find myself energized, enthused, and eager to take new steps.  I know I will rarely reach this level.  I understand it will take years to develop the maturity and understanding required for consistency.  Yet I can reach, and in reaching experience the beauty which is around us!
 
The idea of sharing, especially the process and results, freely is not as common as one might expect.  I know the idea isn’t new.  There is a great example of how Jesus reached out to his disciples.  The story reads like a novel.  “Jesus appeared again to the disciples, this time at the Tiberias Sea (the Sea of Galilee).  This is how he did it: Simon Peter, Thomas (nicknamed “Twin”), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the brothers Zebedee, and two other disciples were together.  Simon Peter announced, ‘I'm going fishing.’ 
 
The rest of them replied, ‘We're going with you.’  They went out and got in the boat.  They caught nothing that night.  When the sun came up, Jesus was standing on the beach, but they didn't recognize him.
 
Jesus spoke to them: ‘Good morning!  Did you catch anything for breakfast?’
 
They answered, ‘No.’
 
 He said, ‘Throw the net off the right side of the boat and see what happens.’
 
They did what he said.  All of a sudden there were so many fish in it, they weren't strong enough to pull it in.
 
Then the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, ‘It's the Master!’
 
When Simon Peter realized that it was the Master, he threw on some clothes, for he was stripped for work, and dove into the sea.” (John 21.1-7)
 
The model was there, is here.  Engage, inspire, and walk together.  Today is one to receive.  It is also one to give.