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Every morning I spend at least some time in front of a mirror. Whether it is by getting dressed, brushing my teeth or just washing my hands, we all find ourselves in front of a mirror at some point throughout the day. This is a great opportunity to remind ourselves of an important truth. We are called to reflect Jesus. The next time you find yourself in front of a mirror, ask yourself, "Am I reflecting Jesus well today?"
"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18) Yes, we are being transformed into the image of Christ: that is, to reflect Him more and more as we grow in Him. So how can we be a reflection of Christ? The Scriptures are full of verses that speak about ways in which we are called to reflect Christ. Here are just a few of them. (Bolding added for emphasis.)
We reflect Jesus by forgiving others:
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)
We reflect Jesus by loving others:
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." (John 13:34)
We reflect Jesus by living holy lives:
"But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'" (1 Peter 1:15-16)
We reflect Jesus by being merciful:
"Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful." (Luke 6:36)
Did you notice the parts I placed in bold? Each one shows the connection of who God is and how we are called to reflect some of His attributes to the world. There are some ways that we cannot reflect God, like in His all-powerful, all-knowing nature. But there are many ways that we ought to reflect Jesus. Being a clear reflection of Christ displays Him to those who do not yet read the Bible, authenticates the things we say and preach, and reveals the Kingdom of God to Earth.
Too often, our lives display a different message. Our lives show that we place ourselves as the central figure. We act in our own interests. Our lives display a different message than the one we preach with our mouths. Don't be discouraged: we are being transformed. It is an ongoing process. But when we recognize that we have not reflected Christ well in an area of our lives, we repent, ask the Spirit for help, and fill our minds with Scripture which shows us how to live another way.
Perhaps you even want to write on your mirror the question: "Who am I reflecting?" or simply the reminder: "Reflect Jesus." Since we probably find ourselves standing in front of a mirror multiple times a day, let it serve as a small "checkup" each time to take a brief moment to pray, "Lord, how am I reflecting you today? Please help me to reflect you more clearly."
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