Welcome!
Today: Imitators of God!
Passage: Eph 5
1 Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Eph 5, NIV )
How do we imitate God?
The Amplified version makes it a little clear
1THEREFORE BE imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]. (Eph 5: 1, Amp. Bible)
While “God” is someone way superior to us, our God is a God of relationship. He wants to have a personal relationship with us
Usually, the lower person would like to keep the relationship with the higher person. In God’s case, it is just the opposite. God takes the initiative
20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. (Rev 3:20, NIV)
It is a humbling experience, to take the initiative. But those who take the initiative get many blessings. Our ego and pride will only do bad to us!
When we wait for others to love us so that we can “return” it, we are not following the example of Jesus
In the verses in Eph 5:1, we see Jesus as our role model. Jesus loved the father so much.
When I was in my 5th grade, my dad used to come home only in the weekend, working in a far place. At that time, me and my brother would just get around him because we get him only once in a week or so!
Do we crave for fellowship with our Father? If not, God has not become our father yet!
We need to come into that father-son relationship.
My younger son sometimes takes my jacket and wears it, while the elder one is waiting for the day he can drive like his dad. Kids want to do the things their dad/mom does!
Do we have a desire to do the things that God does?
Jesus expects us to take responsibility and continue His mission, on earth
Christ loved us so much that He gave Himself as an offering for us
Can we follow His example?
Our families, our churches and even work places cannot become “blessed” until there is true commitment to each other and to God!
God bless you
BG
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for being a role-model for us so that we can be proud of you more than anyone else in the world. Help us to be good role-models like you, in our home, church, work, while driving, and everywhere else. Amen.