If humans were created in God's image, and I believe we were, that image has certainly been defaced and distorted over time. Sometimes, I wonder if we've retained any of his glory at all. We are so overcome by sin and self that surely he has removed himself from us completely.
Fortunately, he has not, and we have his promise that he never will. In John 10:27, Jesus said, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand." He makes this statement to contrast himself with those who claim to be shepherds but are not. "The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it." (verse 12)
Since we are his, as in most families, his children reflect his character, his values, his image. His children carry out his plan, demonstrate his love, and receive his inheritance.
Our challenge is to allow his image to shine. The sinful, decadent life does not reflect the true image of God, nor does the self-focused, hedonistic life. A follower of Jesus bears the fruit of his presence: love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, kindness, and self-control.
I am convinced that once we can present to the world a crystal clear picture of who Jesus really is they will find him utterly irresistible.
READ:
He (Jesus) is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. Heb 1:3
For God, who said, “Light shall shine out of darkness,” is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 2 Cor 4:6
Galatians 5:22,23; John 10; Genesis 1:26,27
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