“Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1
In a heartwarming feature titled “Blind Baltimore runner conquers NYC Marathon at age 66,” readers were introduced to the life of Jackie King—a 66-year-old runner who finished the New York City Marathon with the help of volunteer guides. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa in 2017, Jackie’s vision has steadily faded, but her determination has not. Supported by guides who call out cues—“Jackie, to your left,” “Jackie, high knees”—she crossed the finish line in just over five hours, completing her fifth marathon. Her goal was not speed. “My goal is to finish well,” she said.
And she did.
At UMBC, where she mentors undergraduate STEM students, Jackie’s perseverance speaks louder than her words. One student said, “She not only overcomes challenges, she exceeds expectations… it’s inspiring to watch your mentor succeed.” In other words, Jackie leads by example.
God calls believers to do the same.
Paul confidently told the Corinthians, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” He wasn’t claiming perfection—he was acknowledging direction. His life, though imperfect, consistently showed a deep love for Jesus and a desire to obey Him in every area. Peter reminds us:
“For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps.” 1 Peter 2:21
The world desperately needs visible, real-life examples of Christlikeness. Not flawless people, but faithful ones. It’s good to say, “Don’t look at me—look at Jesus;” however, we cannot avoid the personal responsibility of being Christlike examples. Without godly role-models, the world turns to celebrities, influencers, and entertainers to imitate—and we see the results everywhere.
The Bible reminds us that we are commanded to be “imitators of God as dear children.” (Ephesians 5:1) To imitate God is to reflect His mind and His attitudes. People need to see His purity, mercy, courage, integrity, wisdom, strength and love—in us. The Puritan William Bates captured the power of godly examples:
“Precepts instruct us what things are our duty, but examples assure us that they are possible.”
When we see ordinary people like ourselves—with weaknesses, limitations, pressures, and struggles—living faithfully for Jesus, we gain courage to believe we can do the same. Jackie King ran with guides at her side, listening closely to their directions. In the same way, believers run the race of faith by listening to the Spirit and the Word of God. And as we do, we become guides for others. Our perseverance, humility, courage, and obedience become a living testimony that points people toward Jesus. We each need to be asking ourselves:
If someone imitated my life, would they be following Christ?
Let that question stir you—not to guilt, but to purpose. Be so shaped by the character of Jesus that you can confidently say to others, “Walk with me as I walk with Him.” Your example may be the very thing that leads someone out of darkness toward salvation, joy, hope, and freedom.
We were created for a Divine purpose—let’s live in it!
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help us imitate You so that our lives shine like lights in a dark world. Make us faithful examples who reflect Your character, Your love, and Your truth. Keep us from compromise, and give us courage to live in such a way that others who follow us will find themselves following Christ. Use our lives to guide the lost toward the freedom and purpose that can only be found in You. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen
Melissa Sharp is an ultra runner and running coach who has completed more than 100 marathons and ultra marathons. Melissa has learned how to keep running the race of life for the glory of Christ even though she endured decades of domestic abuse. Melissa is a survivor. Through her daily blog thejoyfilledrunner she inspires others to live in the strength of Christ.
