Whose Blood Is On Your Hands?

We never really know who all is watching us and whose lives we are influencing. Most of the people that we think are taking notice are not; it is generally the ones that we least expect who are following our lead. Everyone is a role model. Whether the model is good or bad solely depends on our actions. Being a positive role model is a responsibility that most people shun, but it is one of the simplest things to do. It only requires doing what we know is right. In Matthew 27:24 "When (Pontius) Pilate saw that he could gain nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see you to it." Pontius Pilate knew that the charges brought against Jesus were false and did not warrant the punishment the multitude demanded. Because he was not influenced by the angry crowd, he instead acknowledged the innocence of Jesus and took no part in the mistreatment. Our actions, good or bad, influence the life of someone else. In many families we see certain cycles that are passed down from generation to generation. In homes where young men and women grow up watching their parents bring partners in and out of their lives or seeing loved ones abused verbally, physically, or sexually; they are affected, even into adulthood. In many instances these kids grow up mimicking this behavior because it is all they know. When their role models fail to set positive examples, it consequently leads to them falling into the same lifestyle. On the other hand, a positive influence leaves a lasting impression as well. Being in an environment filled with love and compassion for one another helps instill that mindset. It then becomes a way of life. We must learn to use our influence to make positive impressions on the lives of others. Doing what we know to be right not only makes an impression on others, but it also enhances our quality of living. We avoid certain situations that may render less than favorable consequences. We all have people who look to us as a source of encouragement. They see the circumstances that we face but pay more attention to our persistence. It encourages them to fight through the adversity that they are facing. It gives them hope to see someone else conquer their opposition. If we give up we not only fail in our situations, but we may also cause those watching to lose faith in their vision as well. Since we are all role models, let us be positive ones because we never know WHOSE BLOOD IS ON OUR HANDS.