More than a Reflection
“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:27
Reflection
Mirrors can be excellent devices. A properly placed mirror can transform a room, giving it a larger appearance and providing additional light to brighten the space. At the same time, a concave hand mirror may be utilized in survival situations to reflect the power of the sunlight light, to signal a search party or to create a life-saving fire.
Application
The Bible states that God created humankind in His image, a distinction that sets humankind apart from the rest of God’s creation. As a mirror reflects many of the qualities and characteristics of the object that it reflects, we were created to reflect many of God’s immaterial attributes and characteristics, such as intellect, creativity, personhood, morality, a communal nature and infinite value. In essence, we are made to reflect the glory of God.
What an amazing truth to behold! This realization has the power to positively impact how we see ourselves when we gaze in the mirror and how we interact with those around us. Our image of self drastically changed when sin entered into the human story. With sin came shame (Gen 3:8), and the adverse effects have been passed from generation to generation.
The next time the reflection you see of yourself in the mirror becomes even slightly distorted, or life experiences negatively affect how you see and interact with the people around you, remember that, though we are not perfect, as we all live with the consequences of sin in a fallen world, we are all made in God’s image, intended to reflect His glory, and are worthy of infinite dignity and worth as God’s image bearers. I encourage you to embrace your God-given purpose and shine brightly for the Lord. By doing so, you will give Him the glory that only He deserves.
Explore the Word
What do these verses tell you about God and His relationship with humankind?
What does being God’s image bearer impact how you see yourself and others?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for making me exactly as I am. Though I know that I am imperfect, I also know that I was made in Your likeness, and I possess qualities that set me and others apart from the rest of Your creation. Help me to see myself and others through Your eyes, Lord, that I may treat myself and others with dignity, respect, compassion and love. And by doing so, Lord, may You be glorified. Amen.
Yours in Christ,
Brad
