We all want to be like Jesus, but how do we imitate His life? We can follow the example of Mary, Joseph, or Peter, or emulate Epaphroditus. We can even learn how he was able to live the life he did in the most difficult circumstances. Jesus’ life is a model for us to follow, because it is a life of love and acceptance that is unmatched by any other life.
Peter
It is hard to imagine a life more radically impacted by Jesus’ ministry than Peter’s. After the risen Jesus ascension, Peter, who had no formal education, became the spokesman for the apostles and began converting people to Christianity. He performed many miracles throughout his thirty years of service to Christ and the Kingdom, enduring imprisonment and death as a result. Peter’s transformation is perhaps one of the greatest redemption stories in history.
Mary
In this book, Catholic journalist Marge Fenelon presents Mary as a model for modern-day mothers. She identifies ten virtues that distinguish Mary from the crowd, and she helps Catholic women channel her patience, strength, and endurance to become better mothers. In imitation of Mary, we will find our ultimate companion. She is the mother of hope and grace. We can follow her example and find peace of mind in our own lives.
Joseph
Joseph’s leading quality was obedience. He trusted God to provide for his family. Joseph entrusted the life of his son to the will of God. His perfect fidelity to God’s will enabled him to act in faith, knowing that God would lead him. He acted on this faith, and as a result, the rest of the Bible teaches us to do the same. In addition, Joseph imitated Jesus by being humble and accepting the situation he was in.
Epaphroditus
If we follow the example of Epaphroditus, how can we imitate his actions? Epaphroditus, a member of the Philippian church, became ill and was thought to be dying. Despite this, he refused to return to his home, worried that he would die. Epaphroditus, how to imitate the life of Jesus?
Self-giving love
Paul’s words to the Thessalonians are reminiscent of the message of the Cross, which he preached more than two thousand years ago. Today, we live in a world where the devil, flesh, and world mock the concept of total self-giving love. Paul says that this kind of love is the “hidden wisdom” of God. That wisdom is hidden from the world, but it is hidden deep within us, Jesus followers.
Dressing up
A new religious trend is spreading in America: dress up like Jesus! While there is no exact definition for what constitutes modesty, the concept of modesty is often described as wearing clothing with less skin showing. Whether it is a spiritual or religious requirement, or simply a personal choice, people of all faiths should strive to follow this fashion trend. Here are some tips for dressing modestly to imitate Jesus.
Prayer
The Imitation of Christ is a spiritual classic written anonymously in 1418. The prayer is adapted from this book. It was written by Thomas a Kempis (1379-1471). The Imitation of Christ contains many fundamental spiritual principles and has been a powerful tool in the lives of saints. If you are interested in praying the way Jesus did, read this book. It will change your life!