Imitation

Imitation is typically a bad word. I remember growing up and for the first time buying tennis shoes at K-mart (Voit). They looked cool but they weren't Nike or Reebok. One can also think of the people on the corners of New York selling watches and jewelry for $10.

However, just like God He flips things upside down and right side up.

Ephesians 5:1-2--Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Wow, we are called to imitate the creator of the universe. How in the world are we supposed to do that? I love what comes after that statement. It shows us to things.

1. In order to imitate God we must first receive His love (as dearly loved children). God is love
and in order to know Him and follow Him we must receive from Him.

2. Live a life of love. Once we receive love from God we can give that love to others.

Question of the day: #1--Have you experienced God's love? If so, is it stale, old or dusty? Why not carve out some time to be still before Him or spend some time in His Word and be refreshed and renewed at how much he loves you. #2--Now that you have received and experienced God's love its time to be an IMITATOR. Let's live a life of love and give up our lives for others. When we do that it is a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.