Like Him
02 February 2012
The people we meet in our daily lives inevitably leave an impression on us. Indeed we sometimes form a tentative opinion of a person’s character very soon after first meeting them, and subsequent contact often confirms that first impression. The grounds for forming that initial opinion can of course vary significantly. Perhaps we note their thoughtful and concerned attitude, or their insensitive and assertive statements, or perhaps what strikes us is their demeanour as they go about their activities.
On one occasion a wealthy lady invited a visiting stranger to stay for a meal with her and her husband. The visitor must have created a favourable initial impression! Thereafter whenever the visitor was in the area he would stop at their home to eat, and based upon these encounters the lady confided to her husband
“I know that this man who often comes our way is a holy man”
The lady in question lived in Shunem and her visitor was the prophet Elisha. A fuller account of these and the ensuing events is to be found in II Kings, Chapter 4.
It is a joy to meet with individuals who reflect and radiate the love of God in their life. In their company we are reminded of God’s goodness and it brings joy to our souls. Do you and I create such an impression on others? Christians should! One of the most striking challenges of a Christian’s life is that a Christian should grow to be like Christ.
“whoever says he abides in Him ought to walk in the same way in which He walked.” 1 John 2:6
Our prayer can be that, by His Grace, we will be enabled to live so near to Him that His beauty will rest upon us. To reflect Christ in our daily life we need to walk with Him, and to radiate Christ we need to abide in Him. But how is this achieved in practical terms? One clue is Paul’s down-to-earth yet deeply spiritual injunction,
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,” Colossians 3:17
Next Sunday in the morning’s Worship Service at IBCZ we will trace out the pathway to being “Like Him”. You are most welcome to join us when we meet at 10:30 am.
Huw Davies, Elder