Devotion
Find your inspiration
David Jacobs
I worked abroad at a school for a while. In the 4-years teaching in the city, I became very disillusioned about the academic practices. I felt that schools did not value academia and study but only cared about earning as much money as possible with as little investment and risk. Teachers were preferred to be pretty than qualified and students happy rather than educated.
I moved to a new school soon after, and this new job felt different, however. It wasn't just because I was designing curricula for schools instead of teaching, but because of a manager that surprised me in the most inspiring way.
Michael was an American gentleman that had also become frustrated with the flaws of the education system, and whilst those higher up the chain had low expectations of our department, he didn't. He expected himself, and us, to be the best we could.
I was inspired by Michael; I wanted to imitate his excellence and attitude. And so I did. Even though my employers didn't expect much from me, I began to work harder and harder to create fantastic curricula, teaching materials, lesson plans and training seminars. The teachers who received these praised our department. They hadn't expected so much support from us, especially when it wasn't needed. That school has one of the best reputations in the city, and I believe it was due to Michael's inspiration on those he leads.
And yet The Lord, who is infinitely more inspiring and dedicated a leader asks less from us than long hours in front of a computer; he asks that we come into his house, repent and live good lives. That's it!
Who in your life have you imitated in some way? Parents? Siblings? Teachers? Maybe even a fictional character? How many of us can say we have really tried to imitate Jesus?
Prayer
It seems so obvious but so difficult in reality. Jesus gave his life so that we had the choice of how to live our lives: imitate him or pursue selfish desires. This verse simply explains who we should look at as an example. The rest is up to us.
Night Prayer
And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.
Inspiration
We have many daily challenges that cause us to worry. Financial burdens, physical health, and other personal affairs cause anxiety and fear. Jesus reassures the disciples that they do not have to worry about where they will rest or what clothes they will wear because God will be present to provide for them as needed. We can apply this knowledge to our concerns as well. God is present and will provide for us physically and spiritually. Even when things are not okay, His presence alone grants us peace to make it through each life event.
Prayer
Dear Lord, we love and adore You. We are grateful for Your presence in our lives and the peace You bestow upon us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
