When it comes to being a perfectionist, there is only one man who was truly perfect. Not only was he “obedience – centered”, but he was a man of love and authority who carried out his purpose to lead souls to repentance. The man I am referring to is Jesus Christ. He understood the call on his life and walked with the utmost confidence. His characteristics speak volumes to time he spent on earth and stand as the perfect example for all who follow him to imitate today.

Authoritative

Jesus was a man with authority. According to Matt.28:19 we are called to imitate Jesus and, “Go to the people of all nations and make them my disciples.” This means that when Jesus spoke these instructions to the church, He deliberately declared obligations that he expected His people (the church) to follow. A disciple is someone who believes in Jesus and seeks to follow him in his or her daily life. Being a disciple also means putting action behind God’s word by walking in obedience and seeking the guidance and help of Christ. Disciples are also Representatives of Christ.

Humble

Jesus a man of humility. According to John 3:35, “The father loves the Son and has given all things into His hands.” Although Jesus knew that He came from the father and would return to the father, He did not boast or become prideful. Instead he humbled himself and took on the role of a servant, even to the point where he washed the feet of his own disciples to teach all of us how to serve others.

When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. – John 13:12-17

A Servant

Jesus served lovingly and humbly. His desire is for us to be open and willing to serve Him in any way that glorifies God. To serve without expectation or the need for validation or feedback. Are you willing to serve humbly? Are you willing to serve those who are overlooked, needy, untidy or outcast in society? For some this may be difficult, but if you Love God with your whole heart and dedicate your work to Him, God will surely recognize you. The purpose in serving is not to please the one you serve, but to please God himself. Through our service to God, we should aim to hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant” ( Matt.25:21).

Obedient

Jesus served obediently. When the father instructed him, he moved without hesitation. If we want to follow Jesus’s example we must serve Him through our obedience and love. Our situations may be different but our purpose remains the same. While Jesus was called to “wash feet”, we must open our eyes to what is in front of us and pray to see how we are called to serve. Some of us may be called to the home, while others may be called to the office, the church or the community. Regardless, we are all called to make disciples in every space we occupy.

It’s time to open your eyes to see and your ears to hear the instructions God has for you. Imitate Christ by adopting His characteristics of service, obedience, and humility. Always remember that through Christ you have authority and you are here for the Greater Purpose of Our Father in heaven.