Many years ago, can’t believe how many, I worked at a Day Care. I witnessed the intense struggle for 3 and 4- year-olds to follow a line leader. Everyone wanted to “be” the line leader. Being the line leader was such an attractive position to own. Yet, only one person can hold that position. Each leader had waited for their name to be picked or somehow earn that right to “BE FIRST!” But sometimes the children would run ahead trying to take over the place of the one chosen. As I watched and dealt with this tiresome process, I realized what a profitable lesson in character building.

Even as adults, we still possess that fleshly desire to own first place. Hence, following the leader is best learned as a child. How rewarding when we find humility and acquire a disciplined life. However, finding the right motivation is key to the success. Colossians 1 teaches Jesus Christ as preeminent. He ranks the highest. And because of His work on the cross, He has first place in everything. So, next time you have the impulse to “get out of line,” remember, JESUS CHRIST IS THE LINE LEADER! He purchased that position with His very own blood!

“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities – all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven.”

Colossians 1:15-20

That’s true motivation to stay in line!