Genesis 1:27

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

We live in a world dominated by image. In England the football transfer window has just closed with multi million pound deals completed as teams strive for as much success as possible. I am told the most complex aspect of such transfer deals are the negotiations over the players image rights. Players and agents earn money becuase of how they look and the clothes they wear.

Advertisers constantly tell us unless we use this shampoo, spray that perfume and wear those jeans then we are not projecting the right image. How many people today are battling image issues? We worry about our weight, complexion and how other people see us.

The good news of the gospel is that each and every one of us are made in the image of God. We have the hallmarks of his character. We have the capacity to feed the hungry, to love the unloved, to welcome the alien and provide for the widow and orphan. When we have the blueprint for such a wonderful image already within us why is it we chase after so many other things? Is it not more beautiful to be seen as God intended rather than what the world expects of us?

Jesus said,

“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labour or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendour was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (Matthew 6:28-34)

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you for how you have created us in your image. We know you are holy, you are loving and you are perfect in every way. Forgive us Lord for allowing ourselves to become fixated with how we look. This week we pray that you would restore more of your image in our lives, that we would be more like you. We ask that as people look at us they would see you. Amen

If you have benefited from this reflection then why not consider a more regular bible reading program such as the international bible society plan.