the image & likeness of God

The scriptures tell us that each of us, every one of us, is created in the image and likeness of God. The image and likeness of God – two distinct things. One inherent in who we are, the other a choice.

Within us, the core of our very essence is a reflection of the Holy One. Each person you know, each person you greet, every person you see is a reflection of God. In all our diversity, with all our likes and dislikes, no matter our sexual orientation or gender identity, in every body image and skin tone we exemplify the very image of God. This week I’ve walked our labyrinth several times, always with these words singing in my soul: whichever way you turn, there is the face of God. This is true of all of life, whether or not we have eyes to see.

So the image of God is created in us. But the likeness of God is a choice. You see, the likeness of God is in our actions and way of being in the world. The likeness of God is seen in how we greet one another, how we speak of and to one another, how we regard one another, and how we treat those with whom we agree and, especially, those with whom we don’t. The likeness of God is in our words and in our thoughts. The likeness of God is in our hearts and in our relationships.

Is life about the journey together and growing in faith and love through relationship? Or is it about being “right” and doing things the “right way” and being better than others, as if there is some invisible competition to strive for?

How will you choose to be the likeness of God in the world today?