for example
"This is how he died, leaving in his death a model of courage and an unforgettable example of virtue not only for the young but for the whole nation." —2 Maccabees 6:31
One of the main ways of maturing in Christian life is by example. We should imitate Christ and imitate others as they imitate Christ (1 Cor 4:16; 11:1). We should be models of courage and unforgettable examples of virtue both in life and death.
Jesus is our Example in setting example. He said at the Last Supper shortly before He died: "What I just did was to give you an example: as I have done, so you must do" (Jn 13:15). Peter said: "It was for this you were called, since Christ suffered for you in just this way and left you an example, to have you follow in His footsteps" (1 Pt 2:21). Paul told Titus: "In everything set them an example by doing what is good" (1 Tm 2:7, NIV). Paul told Timothy the same. "Be a continuing example of love, faith, and purity to believers" (1 Tm 4:12).
Paul also set an example for being an example: "Not that we had no claim on you, but that we might present ourselves as an example for you to imitate" (2 Thes 3:9). He said: "Be imitators of me, my brothers. Take as your guide those who follow the example that we set" (Phil 3:17).
Our example is the first Bible most people read, the only one some will ever read. "Be an example to the flock" (1 Pt 5:3).
Prayer: Jesus, I'm sorry for taking Your name and making You look bad by misrepresenting You. Forgive me.
Promise: "Jesus said to him: "Today salvation has come to this house...the Son of Man has come to search out and save what was lost." —Lk 19:9-10
Praise: St. Albert was a teacher of not only St. Thomas Aquinas but for countless believers throughout the centuries.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape Living Our Vocations on audio AV 113-1 or video V-113.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Daniel E. Pilarczyk, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 21, 2005
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