Imago Dei

     We as human beings are made in the Image of God. During creation when God created man & woman he said "it is very good", which is the only time in the creation narrative that God refers to something he created as "very good". We are made by God as unique individuals, who reflect Gods image all throughout our beings. So the question becomes since we have been made in the image of God, Imago Dei (Gen 1:27), how does this change the way we live our daily lives?
     Do you live into the fact that you are created in Gods image as you walk out the front door this morning, realizing how beautiful you are? when I think of the characteristics of God I think of a just, love, passionate, forgiving, patient, beautiful, righteous, gracious, and holy God whom I love & praise daily. If I were to live into the reality that I am made in Gods image would I exhibit these characteristics more throughout both my day and my life? Would I allow the Holy Spirit to manifest itself more & more throughout my life to help me possess these Godly characteristics?
     Perhaps if I lived out the fact that I am made in Gods image I would look differently at the man panhandling on the corner or be able to see the Imago Dei in the difficult people I encounter throughout my day. I believe that if I choose to begin to recognize the imago Dei in me I will also begin to see it in others. Once I recognize that those around me, even the people who are sometimes rude, are made in the image of God it changes everything! I challenge you to live into the fact that you were created by God and in His image today & while you do this I encourage you to remember that everyone you talk to today was also made in the image of God. May the shalom of Christ be with you today.