Understudies/stunt doubles

In the theater the lead actors often have an understudy - a person ready to step in and perform their role in case they are not able to be on stage and act. The understudy prepares to step in and speak the same words as the lead actor would, carry out the same actions, and interact with the same characters. The understudy never gets their name in lights, or on the program, but serves on behalf of the lead actor.

We as followers of Jesus are called and commissioned (John 14:12, 20:21) to be understudies (stand in, stunt doubles) for him. Now that he has 'stepped off the stage' for this time period, we get to step in and speak his lines, carry out his activities, and interact with the same people he would if he were in my situation today.

So - as an understudy of Jesus, I desire to know his words, know what he would do, know how he would act, react, and interact with the people in my sphere of influence. I do it all so that he will 'look good' and get rave reviews. I do it without desire for applause and fame and reward. Every morning as I rise, I want to be ready to 'step on stage' and stand in for Jesus.