“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 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.” Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)
When imitation comes up in a conversation, we most often think of something false and not authentic, but Paul exhorts the Ephesian believers and us to be imitators. Like little children imitating their parents, we are to imitate God. Certainly that is a huge order, and most 21st century Christians do not believe it is even possible. What a tragedy!
When the Bible so expressly exhorts us to imitate God, how could we not believe that it is possible? Would our loving, heavenly Father ask us to do something that is impossible for us to do? Well, of course not! Jesus said, “Come unto me . . . and I will give you rest . . . for my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Mt. 11:28-30). An easy yoke and light burden are metaphors that describe how imitating Christ is far easier than the bondage of the adversary.
Note Paul’s exhortations in Ephesians 4:25-5:2. Stop lying and tell the truth. Don’t let your anger result in sin. Refuse to allow the adversary any point of entry into your life. Stop being a leech and become a productive member of society. Instead of being a taker, become a generous giver. Stop being a gossip and become an encourager. Encourage, don’t discourage! Act in such a way that you do not disappoint and aggravate the Holy Spirit. Remove every form of malice from your life. Be kind, be compassionate, forgive one another.
In other words, act like your Father acts. A songwriter wrote, “To be like Jesus, to be like Jesus. All I ask is to be like him.” Instead of excuses, perhaps we should ask ourselves: Do I really want to be like Jesus?
Dear Father, thank you for Jesus, our Lord and Savior who showed us how to imitate you. Enable us to yield to the Holy Spirit who will transform us into the image of your Son. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today . . . Become an imitator,