Follow the Leader

These days everyone wants to be the leader, and being a follower is difficult to sell.

However, 'following' is exactly what the Church offers. Perhaps that's one reason why churches are finding it difficult just now.

I know a few people who are blind, and two of my friends use a guide dog. Perhaps the act of following Jesus is a little bit like blind people who depend on their guide dog.

Blind people often have remarkably sensitive hearing, and can become adept at telling where they are, by the sounds that are around them. But even a hyper-developed sense of hearing cannot replace the sense of sight.

A seeing person can see farther than anyone can hear, and can sense objects which make no sound. Colourful flowers, and warning signs, cannot be seen by an ear.

It must take an immense amount of trust to step out into the unknown, dependent on the eyes of a dog, or another friend, to provide guidance that takes into account the visual world.

Such trust does not spring into existence from nothing. It develops gradually, day by day, as the guide and the follower learn to work together, to journey together, to survive together.

In today's world of instant gratification, fast food, TV-on-demand, and infinite choice, the expenditure of such time and effort is a costly process. Friendship, relationship, trust, and faith, all require commitment and energy.

Such commitment and energy won't be given unless there is a reasonable prospect of a return on the investment. There must be some offer of reward to encourage someone to begin that journey. As the journey progresses, the follower will be looking for signs that the goal at the end of the journey will be reached and will be worthwhile.

In our churches we need to re-learn how to make that offer and to present that reward using language and imagery that people today can relate to and accept. It will take at least as much energy to encourage and support the follower on their journey, as it will require from the follower who is making the journey.

Jesus knows us better than we know him. He knows what we need and wants us to receive it. If the church opens herself to him, then she will discover that his way is fruitful, leading many new people to follow Jesus themselves.

It will be a journey of discovery, requiring us to develop and enhance our senses, and to trust our guide and friend. Today is a good day to follow your leader.