December 9, 2024

Have you ever tried to imitate someone? A lot of times people try to imitate celebrities.  When I coached basketball kids would try to imitate their favorite players.   It was usually unsuccessful because they were uncoordinated Middle School and much smaller than the players that they looked up to.  The problem with imitation is that we sometimes will try to imitate only what we can see without understanding the reason the person does it or appreciating the work that they put into it.
 There is also a form of natural imitation that comes when kids are around their parents.  Have you ever noticed your kids having similar mannerisms or reactions to things.  They may express things in a similar way.  I think when Paul tells us to be imitators of God, I think this is closer to the image of a Son or Daughter acting like and becoming like their parent.  Being an imitator of God is not something that happens without a relationship with God.  To actually know someone, spend time with them, and appreciate them is the greatest way to become an imitator of them.  You are child of God, and you are called to be an imitator of your Father in this world.  You cannot imitate what you don't know.  You can't know unless you take real time to look at His Word.