Have you ever noticed how kids imitate and copy everything they see? The way you talk, the little habits you have, even your expressions. They learn by watching. It’s often been said that imitation is the greatest form of flattery. But when it comes to our relationship with Jesus Christ, imitation isn’t about flattery. It’s so much more.
Ephesians 5:1-2 (The Message) says:
“Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with Him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of Himself to us. Love like that.”
Imitating Christ begins with observing how He loved us. Paul reminds us that Jesus loved extravagantly, without reservation, and with no strings attached. He didn’t love us to get something from us; that would be manipulation. Christ loved us so He could give us everything of Himself.
Think about that for a moment. Jesus loved us so deeply that He gave us all of Himself.
As we think about our relationship with Him this week, let’s ask ourselves: Do we love Jesus because we want something from Him? Or do we love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, willing to give Him everything of ourselves?
Friends, imitating Christ is just that: giving Him everything and holding nothing back.