Feb

15

The value of the imago dei

February 15, 2007 |

I want to spend some time on values—those foundational beliefs that drive my involvement I small groups and virtually every form of ministry I’m drawn to.

Probably the primary value I hold is that of the imago dei—that each person I meet is created in the image of God, beloved and treasured by him. And therefore, wholly redeemable. That belief is a great motivator when my flesh wants to scream and run. When I’m too busy, too tired, too burned out. If I can see the person in front of me as if he or she were Jesus, it helps a lot.

That doesn’t mean that I’m always patient or gracious, but it sure helps. So many of the challenging people in our groups are those who most need our love. They have no one who really sees them. No one who listens. No one who cares. And in my flesh, I often don’t love, don’t listen, don’t care. But knowing that God loves and values this person as much as he does me often helps to give me that added bit of patience and grace I need to go the extra mile. It helps me listen for a few more minutes. It helps me work harder to figure out what is going to reach the spirit of this person.

It’s a simple thing, this imago dei, but ever so profound. Try it when you’re feeling bewildered or frustrated.


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