The Jewish rabbis had the practice of moving in the front and their disciples following behind. That is why the disciples were also called followers. The followers neither knew the destination or the way thereto. Neither did they have their own itinerary. It was their master, the rabbi who determined their movement – when and where to go. They would keep following. The best follower is the one who observes the master’s footsteps and follows in them.

As Christians, we are disciples and followers of our Master, Jesus Christ. He came from heaven, became man and has gone ahead of us to show the way. We need to follow Him in His steps to get to where He is leading us.

Following in the Master’s steps is about being guided by God. We need to be discerning to the guidance of God and follow him both in ordinary things of life and the ultimate goal of our existence.
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In the OT (Gen.29:1-20) is the story of Jacob’s marriage to Rachael. God guided his steps to Laban’s house and eventually to the marriages with Leah and Rachael. God uses many ways to guide us. Hearing God clearly and being able to identify his voice among others are essential for the compliance to His directives and walking in His steps.

In the NT (2Tim. 1:1-14) is Paul’s pastoral epistle in which Timothy is given guidance. God also guides through mentorship. Timothy’s faith was derived from his mother through his grandmother. He now had Paul as mentor and guide. Paul urged him: “What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus,” (vs 13).

Paul also underscored the role and importance of the Holy Spirit in getting us to our destination.

• The Venerable (Dr.) Princewill Onyinyechukwu Ireoba, FIMC, CMC is the Rector, Ibru International Ecumenical Centre, Agbarha-Otor, Delta State. Email: [email protected], [email protected]