Shared Likenesses!

We may share clear resemblances of both our parents. It is possible to share the likeness of other relations as well. Sometimes people look at us and can easily tell with whom we are related. The same is so in a spiritual sense.

Continuing in considering the contrast between Adam and Christ we began yesterday, Paul noted what we share from both where we read. . .
"(47) The FIRST MAN was FROM THE EARTH, a man of dust; the SECOND MAN IS FROM HEAVEN. (48) As was the man of dust, so also are those who are of the dust, and as is the man of heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. (49) Just as we have BORNE THE IMAGE OF THE MAN OF DUST, we SHALL ALSO BEAR THE IMAGE OF THE MAN OF HEAVEN." ( 1 Corinthians 15:47-49 ESV)

There is the physical image of humanity we all share. That began with Adam. God formed him out of the dust of the earth ( Genesis 2:7) and that body of dust shall return to it. ( Ecclesiastes 12:7) However, there was another essence instilled within mankind and that was the LIKENESS OF GOD. ( Genesis 1:26-27) Sin has corrupted and tarnished that image. However, in Christ we have the blessing of THAT IMAGE BEING RENEWED.

Recognizing we bear the image of both, do we sometimes experience the struggle between the two? We need to continue looking to God for His guidance and power to be working in our life.

Peter encouraged. . .
"(3) HIS DIVINE POWER HAS GRANTED TO US ALL THINGS THAT PERTAIN TO LIFE AND GODLINESS, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, (4) by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may BECOME PARTAKERS OF THE DIVINE NATURE, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire." ( 2 Peter 1:3-4 ESV)

We are more than just dust to be blown or swept away. However, living life disconnected from the Will of God we might as well be dust to be kicked up underfoot. Are we living in a manner that more than our physical image can be seen? Someday that will become dust. Our family tree actually goes back to God, not merely to fleshly man. May we remember our true roots as we continue to be renewed in the image of our Creator. ( Colossians 3:10) It is THAT IMAGE that relates to our eternity with Him.

Have a great day ALLOWING GOD'S SIDE OF THE FAMILY TO SHOW!
Carl

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