Ephesians 5:1-2 AMP
[1] Therefore become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father];
[2] and walk continually in love [that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others], just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God [slain for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.
The physical plane provides great examples that are worthy of emulation. Great men in the fields of science, technology, arts, music and other areas of human endeavour have come and left impressions for us to emulate. Their lives have provided us with studies in focus, dedication and commitment to excellence. As spiritual beings too, we also have examples that we are required to follow. An impactful life must find and maintain that balance between the physical and the spiritual. I cannot be so focused on making heaven that I forget to live the life God has placed me on earth to live. I must also not be so focused on this earth and all it provides that I forget to make proper preparations for my eternal destination. Both are important and critical to the fulfilment of God's will for my life. How is my focus at the moment? Can I say I have a healthy balance in place: able to bless lives on earth as well as headed for eternity with God?
God is presented as the perfect example that I must follow. The Bible is His revelation of His person, purpose and plan for my life. How would I know what to emulate or imitate if I do nor even know the original? You do not have an imitation if there is no perfect version. As I read the Word of God, I see the mind of God, and His expectations from and for me. I see a child and the father, and in most cases, even without words, the blood connection is evident. There are facial and behavioral similarities that will make it clear that these people are connected or related. That has to be the same for me and my heavenly Father. People must see me and by my actions, even without words, know who I belong to. When I speak, it is like God is speaking. I reflect God; I make Him known; I make God's heart rejoice when I represent Him well, and others are drawn to the love of God that is manifest in and through me.
It is not a mistake that it is love that is used in the verses above to reflect the best way to show God off to others. It is love for others that seeks to place their interests over and above my own. It is also not something you do only when it is convenient, but what must be a lifestyle. It is a continuous walk which reflects my ownership and direction. Again, if I did not have an example to imitate, I could be forgiven for not getting it right, but long before I was born, the template for love had been put in place. Jesus came to the earth in human form, so He could walk in my shoes and be able to provide the grace I need to live right. The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross represents the height, depth and scope of God's love. It is highlighted by God as the only sacrifice that is acceptable to Him, and by it, we are saved, and given the grace to be the visible and audible expression of that love. Does this describe me? God's time of favour is here.
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