Young children so enjoy playing copying games, like Follow the Leader or Simon Says. As an elementary school teacher of over 20 years, I can instantly grab a classroom full of students’ attention simply by saying “Simon Says…”. All ears perk up and stand at attention waiting to see what action they will follow. It is fun to try to match the actions of the leader. If you listen and follow, you will do quite well in this game.
Somewhere along the line, these simple, highly motivating games lose their appeal. In fact, following is not often given the credit it deserves. When a parent or teacher mentions that a student tends to be “a follower” this usually means the student is probably not making good decisions as he or she is being negatively influenced in some way. If only the student would follow a positive role model, that would result in good fruit!
Spirit Led
In the first reading, we hear of those negative influences that can come from following the loud voices of the world. If we are listening to these voices, the path leads to the world and away from the Kingdom of God. The selfishness, hatred and fury leave us bruised, empty, and isolated. Soon, we become jaded and falsely begin to believe that we need to take command, and we may conclude that following is for the weak. What we once did so naturally as children, that is, following our parents or teachers, appears foolish. We forget how to allow the Lord to lead, even while we claim to be His followers.
However, when we follow the voice of the Spirit, then we reap His fruits: love, joy, peace, and the like! Even in the face of the desert heat, we can trust that the Spirit leads, just as He led Jesus. There is fruit even in the most difficult of circumstances, even in the driest of terrains, but we have to be willing to follow Him with docility of heart, listening for the voice of our Heavenly Papa.
What a beautiful way to live! At every moment, let us only concern ourselves with gazing at Christ – listening with open ears and hearts! Let the noise and busyness of the world fade into the background. Like children, let us wait expectantly for what He will say, and like good sons and daughters, let us follow Him with full surrender and joy!
