What is a footprint? A footprint is an impression that is made by the feet of individuals or animals. Human footprints do disappear, but do they ever remain? Of course, this depends on what is meant by the word “footprints”. You may have heard someone say that they are following in the footprints of someone they admire. The reference is that they are following the example of someone who’s life has impacted them or somehow made a difference in their life. Following in the footprints of someone means that they are following the attitude someone has or the action they have taken. Throughout history, the person whose footprints have probably made the most significant difference in the lives of people are the footprints of Jesus. What Jesus did, how He acted, and how He thought are examples which we are encouraged to follow. In one of St. John's epistles, he says, “Whoever says he abides in him [Jesus] ought to walk in the same way in which he walked” (I John 2:6, ESV). The Apostle Peter says much the same: “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps” (I Peter 2:21, NIV). Notice that according to these two verses we need to live our lives by following the example of Jesus.
You and I leave footprints for people who come after us. Those footprints are not ones that are found in the sand or dirt on which we walk. They are found in the great work that God has done and continues to do which we emulate. When we follow the instruction, commands, and example of Jesus, our footprints become strategic messages that are valuable for others to implement. When we talk about how Jesus has listened to us, how He answered our prayers, how He has healed us, or how He has helped us, and given strength or encouragement – these footprints are indelible prints that have made a significant difference in our lives. Think about these questions. (1) How has Jesus left a footprint in your life? (2) What individuals have made footprints which you would like to follow? (3) What footprints are you leaving for others?
