One of the most profound and transforming messages from Jesus was redefining what it means to be a neighbor. Jesus taught us time and again to look beyond the choices that one makes and especially details like birthplace, physical appearance, and even group membership. Since we are all made in the image of God, there is a reflection of God in each person that walks this earth. He writes,
We are not to reflect on the wickedness of men but to look to the image of God in them, an image which, covering and obliterating their faults, an image which, by its beauty and dignity, should allure us to love and embrace them. ~John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion
We could spend all our time complaining about others and often times we do. We do get frustrated when people disappoint us or make choices that are different than the ones we might make. We often don’t understand the voices on the other side of the aisle and rather than love we treat as others. Sometimes it is their choices that separate us and other times it can be other stumbling blocks like mental health and addiction that make it challenging to understand. Rather than spend our time, headspace and words disparaging the other and focusing on their faults, Calvin reminds us that we should instead focus on searching for that image of God that is in them. It is this image of God that will hopefully compel us to show them the same love, compassion, and grace that our God gives to each of us.
Prayer
God of love, thank you for the reminder that we are all beautifully made in your image. Even though there are many differences between all of us, there is a piece of each of us that reflects your love and light. Help us to seek your reflection in those around us and focus on how to love the other. Amen.
Such a great message. I keep a Mother Theresa quote on my kitchen cabinet “…if you judge people, you have no time to love them…”